Issuu

OCTOBER 2026

CCA IN WASHINGTON, D.C. BEWARE OF BLUE-GREEN ALGAE POISONING LOOKING AT TRUMP'S RANCHERS FIRST INITIATIVE THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CALIFORNIA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION October 2026 California Cattleman

2 California Cattleman October 2026

20TH ANNIVERSARY

Bull Sale

FEATURING 75 LONG YEARLING BULLS 35 HEREFORD • 27 ANGUS • 13 SIMANGUS

Watch for standout prospects like these!

LAMBERT JAZZ 31N

LAMBERT DUKE 79N

AHA 44679094

LAMBERT REAL ID 6112 49N

AHA 44679123

AHA 44679155

CED

MarB

$CHB

CED

MarB

$CHB

CED

MarB

$CHB

6.7

1.9

0.34

0.70

155

5.8

1.9

0.26

0.44

127

0.9

0.24

0.93

155

LAMBERT TRIFECTA 65N

ASA 4541967

HARDESTY KINGDOM 5015

WESTWIND MAJORITY DJH 517

AAA 21283641

AAA 21521443

CED

MarB

aPI

CED

MarB

CED

MarB

11.3

-0.3

84.4

133.8

0.26

0.66

121.5

-3

4.9

123

0.79

0.91

277

1.0

159

1.69

0.80

375

The Lambert Family

Steve Lambert (530) 624-5256 slambert5256@gmail.com Oroville • Alturas lambertranchherefords.com

BID ONLINE AT SALESMADEEZ.COM

FEATURING BULLS FROM REPUTABLE BREEDERS: WESTWIND ANGUS SUNBRIGHT ANGUS DIAMOND S ANGUS

VOL. 109, ISSUE 9

CALIFORNIA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION

OCTOBER 2026 WWW.CALCATTLEMEN.ORG

3841 North Freeway Blvd., Suite 130 Sacramento, CA 95834 PRESIDENT

Rick Roberti, Loyalton FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

Mike Williams, Acton

SECOND VICE PRESIDENTS

James Henderson, Woodlake Steve Lambert, Oroville Anthony Stornetta, Atascadero TREASURER

Beverly Bigger, Ventura EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Billy Gatlin

VICE PRESIDENT OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

Kirk Wilbur

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE

Lisa Brendlen

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Katie Roberti

MEMBERSHIP & EVENTS COORDINATOR

Gracie LeCheminant

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

Katherine Dickinson

PUBLICATION SERVICES OFFICE & CIRCULATION

CCA Office: (916) 444-0845 Fax: (916) 444-2194 MANAGING MAGAZINE EDITOR

Stevie Ipsen | (208) 996-4922 stevie.ipsen@gmail.com

ADVERTISING SALES/FIELD SERVICES

Matt Macfarlane | (916) 803-3113 m3cattlemarketing@gmail.com BILLING SERVICES

Lisa Brendlen lisa@calcattlemen.org SERVING CALIFORNIA BEEF PRODUCERS SINCE 1917

Bolded names and businesses in editorial represent only current members of the California Cattlemen’s Association or California CattleWomen, Inc. For questions about membership status, contact the CCA office at (916) 444-0845. The California Cattleman (Publication #8-3600) is published monthly except May/June is combined by the California Cattlemen’s Association, for $20/year, or as part of the annual membership dues. All material and photos within may not be reproduced without consent of publisher. Periodical postage paid at Lubbock, Texas, 79402. Publication # 8-3600 National Advertising Group: McFarland AdVantage | (334) 652-9080 222 Shady Valley Road, Autaugaville, AL 36003 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: California Cattleman, 3841 North Freeway Blvd., Suite 130 Sacramento, CA 95834

4 California Cattleman October 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS Los Angeles County Cattlemen's Fall Meet & Greet Oct. 10 | Leona Valley

Ventura County Cattlemen's Fall Dinner & Meeting Oct. 11 | Somis

Madera County Fall Dinner & Meeting Oct. 17 | Madera

Amador-El Dorado-Sacramento Fall Dinner & Meeting Oct. 17 | Plymouth

Modoc County Fall Dinner & Meeting Oct. 24 | Alturas

Tuolumne County Fall Dinner & Meeting Nov. 6 | Sonora

CCA Convention Internship Deadline Oct. 10

110th Annual CCA/CCW Convention

Dec. 1-4 | Atlantis Casino Resort | Reno, NV

TURLOCK LIVESTOCK AUCTION YARD CALIFORNIA’S CATTLE MARKETING CENTER MARK YOUR CALENDARS AND JOIN US FOR THESE EVENTS!

TLAY FALL ROUNDUP SPECIAL FEEDER SALES TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20 TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3 TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17

20TH ANNIVERSARY FEEDER SALE & CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15

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WATCH LIVE AND BID ON LMAAUCTIONS.COM CALL TO CONSIGN CATTLE TO THESE UPCOMING EVENTS! OCT.OBER 16

DECEMBER 2

COTTONWOOD, CA

RENO, NV

WVM HEADQUARTERS

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MAX OLVERA............................ 209 277-2063 STEVE FARIA ............................ 209 988-7180 JUSTIN RAMOS....................... 209 844-6372 JOHN BOURDET ...................... 831 801-2343 CELESTE SETTRINI..................831 320-1527

TIM SISIL .................................. 209 631-6054 JAKE BETTENCOURT............... 209 262-4019 TRAVIS JOHNSON.................. 209 996-8645 JOHN LUIZ.................................. 209 480-5101 MATT MILLER........................... 209 914-5116 BUD COZZI ................................ 209 652-4480

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10430 Lander Ave., Turlock, CA P.O. Box 3030, Turlock, CA 95381 www.turlocklivestock.com October 2026 California Cattleman

CONTENTS

ASSOCIATION PERSPECTIVES

8 CATTLEMEN’S COLUMN 10 BUNKHOUSE

Persistence in advocacy pays off CCA members spend valuable time lobbying in Washington, D.C.

16 DUES DOLLARS AT WORK

Late hours of legislative session reap rewards for California producers

32 WORKING RINGSIDE

Another record bull season reflects West Coast optimsm

CHIMES

Putting generosity to work across CCW units statewide

38 NATIONAL STAGE

Estate planning to prevent problems

ON THE COVER

6 California Cattleman October 2026

As we move into fall, the tempertures drop and the leaves change to remind us that wetter weather is on the horizon. This month's cover photo was taken in the Eastern Sierra by Hal Bergman.

22 SPECIAL FEATURES

14 AROUND THE CORNER

Make plans to attend the 110th CCA & CCW Convention

PROBLEM IN BLOOM Modoc County rancher experiences blue-green algae cattle deaths

28 BY EXECUTIVE ORDER

USDA outlines administrations solutions to ranching issues

READER SERVICES

42 44

42 CATTLEMEN'S REPORT 44 RANCH FAMILY ROUNDUP 46 BUYERS’ GUIDE 50 ADVERTISING INDEX October 2026 California Cattleman

CATTLEMEN’S COLUMN PRESSURE, PERSISTENCE AND PROGRESS by CCA First Vice President Mike Williams I am writing shortly after returning from Washington, D.C., where I joined current and former leaders and staff of the California Cattlemen’s Association. CCA organizes the D.C. Fly-In to give members and leaders an opportunity to meet with senior administration officials, representatives and senators. These visits make a difference. Whether it is the D.C. Fly-In or the annual Steak and Eggs breakfast in Sacramento, I strongly encourage every member who is able to participate. I am convinced that our collective efforts can deliver meaningful results for California cattle producers. The impact ranchers have when meeting with political and administrative leaders is not always immediate, and the results seldom go as far as we would like. The challenges we face are often large and complex and solutions can be difficult to achieve. Every cowboy understands that communicating with horses and livestock requires applying the right amount of pressure to achieve a result. Apply too little, and you are easy to ignore. Apply too much, and communication stops—you become a problem to escape. I have found that the same principle applies to public policy: maintain steady pressure while creating an opportunity for release. Some describe this approach as making the right thing easy and the wrong thing difficult. I saw this process at work repeatedly during our meetings on Capitol Hill. In every agency and legislative office, CCA President Rick Roberti, Loyalton, made a passionate and compelling case about the dangers wolves pose to the communities they enter, the toll they take on ranchers, and the need for producers to be able to protect their livestock.

8 California Cattleman October 2026

We also discussed challenges within FSA and NRCS offices, the reopening of federal grazing allotments, animal health threats such as New World screwworm (NWS) and the longhorn tick and other pressing issues facing cattle producers. These conversations underscored why sustained engagement matters. Whether the issue is NWS, the longhorn tick, grazing access or local service delivery, policymakers need to understand how decisions made in Washington affect producers on the ground. I left Washington optimistic that change is happening and progress is being made, even as I remained frustrated by its slow pace. Above all, I returned with a renewed sense of pride in the California Cattlemen’s Association. Over the years, CCA’s leaders have built a reputation for competence and leadership that commands the respect of administrative and legislative officials. Those officials value the insight and perspective California cattle producers bring, and they listen when we speak. That respect was not earned on this trip alone; it reflects years of capable, thoughtful leadership. Now it is our responsibility to build on that legacy. When the next opportunity comes—whether in Washington, Sacramento, or our own communities—I encourage every CCA member to show up, speak plainly and help keep California cattle producers at the table.

California’s livestock marketing leader

CLM FALL FEEDER SPECIALS Join Us Ringside at 12 p.m.

CALIFORNIA REPRESENTATIVES Jake Parnell ...................................... 916-662-1298 Walter Schalla, Manager ........... 719-252-6607 George Gookin ...............................209-482-1648 Rex Whittle...................................... 209-996-6994 Mark Fischer ....................................209-768-6522 Kris Gudel .........................................916-208-7258 Steve Bianchi ................................. 707-484-3903 Jason Dailey .....................................916-439-7761 Bowdy Griffin ..................................530-906-5713 Brett Friend ......................................510-685-4870

NEVADA REPRESENTATIVE

W E D N E S DAYS : October 7 • October 21 November 4 • November 11 November 18 December 2 • December 16

CLM ANNUAL BRED COW AND REPLACEMENT FEMALE SALE AND

PARNELL’S 58 ANNUAL CENTRAL CALIFORNIA ‘WORLD OF BULLS’ SALE TH

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Females at 9:30 a.m. • Bulls at 12:30 p.m. Featuring Top Angus, SimAngus, Hereford, Red Angus and Charolais Bulls from Top Seedstock Producers from throughout the West

Tod Radelfinger .............................. 775-901-3332

WEDNESDAY WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Butcher Cows ............................................... 8:30 a.m. Cow-Calf Pairs/Bred Cows ................. 11:30 a.m. Feeder Cattle ....................................................12 p.m.

AUCTION MARKET

12495 E. STOCKTON BLVD., GALT, CA 95632

Office....................................................209-745-1515 Fax ........................................................ 209-745-1582 Website/Market Report ..........www.clmgalt.com Web Broadcast ....................................... www.cci.live

CALL TO CONSIGN TO THESE UPCOMING WVM SALES: October 16 – WVM Headquarters, Cottonwood, CA Consignment Deadline: October 8

November 6 – Embassy Suites, Amarillo, TX Consignment Deadline: October 29

December 2 – Atlantis Casino Resort, Reno, NV Consignment Deadline: November 18

October 2026 California Cattleman

BUNKHOUSE CALIFORNIA BEEF PRODUCERS ATTEND D.C. FLY-IN TO VISIT WITH KEY CAPITOL PLAYERS by CCA Executive Vice President Billy Gatlin I recently joined about a dozen California Cattlemen’s Association members in Washington, D.C., for our annual fly-in. Over the course of two days, our group visited with more than 20 federal agencies and congressional offices. With a group that size and several meetings occurring simultaneously, none of us could be everywhere. But the meetings I attended left me encouraged. Across agencies and Capitol Hill, people seemed genuinely pleased that California ranchers had made the trip. More importantly, they were willing to listen, ask questions and talk about solutions. That was certainly true during our meeting with USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). The closure of livestock ports along the U.S.-Mexico border has had consequences for California cattle producers. USDA has begun a phased reopening, with the Douglas, Ariz., port reopening in August, but Santa Teresa, New Mexico, remains closed with no reopening date announced at the time of our meeting. We emphasized the importance of safely reopening Santa Teresa and encouraged APHIS to continue moving that process forward as quickly as animal-health conditions allow (a couple days after our return to the Golden State, USDA announced Santa Teresa would reopen Sept. 24). That conversation naturally led to New World screwworm. USDA continues responding to cases of the pest while maintaining surveillance, treatment protocols and restrictions intended to

protect U.S. livestock. We had a detailed discussion with APHIS about how a national response works on the ground in California. Overall, the framework is workable, but our members identified areas where cattle movement protocols and carcass disposal provisions could create unique challenges in our state. Agency staff understood those concerns and expressed a willingness to continue working with us on solutions that protect animal health while allowing ranchers to operate. That is exactly why these trips matter. A regulation or response plan that looks perfectly reasonable in Washington can look very different when applied on a California ranch. We found a similar willingness to solve problems in our meeting with the Bureau of Land Management. Members raised specific concerns involving grazing adjacent to BLM property and the ability of permittees to make improvements on federal lands they lease. Rather than simply explaining why something couldn't happen, the discussion centered on how problems might be resolved. ...CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Members of CCA took advantage of the opportunity to share their views with leadership at the USDA as well as California Rep. David Valadao during the annual D.C. Fly-In in mid September.

10 California Cattleman October 2026

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...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 That attitude matters. Ranchers operating on or adjacent to federal lands frequently encounter situations that don't fit neatly into an agency manual. Having relationships with people willing to understand those circumstances can make a meaningful difference. RELATIONSHIPS ACROSS THE AISLE Our meetings on Capitol Hill provided another important reminder. We met with both Republican and Democratic members of Congress who represent CCA members. When putting together these trips, I am always struck by how many California ranchers are represented by Democrats, not only in Congress, but also in the California Legislature. It underscores something CCA has worked hard to maintain: cattle production cannot become a partisan issue. Our responsibility is to build relationships with policymakers regardless of party or political ideology and help them understand the people, land and businesses affected by the decisions they make. That work is paying dividends. Members of both parties expressed support for ranchers and a willingness to help address the issues we brought before them. Yet there was another unmistakable takeaway from Washington. While California ranchers are well positioned with many individual members of Congress and within federal agencies, the broader dysfunction in Washington can overwhelm even issues where progress should be possible. We watched votes scheduled for midafternoon move later and later into the evening as disagreements consumed Congress. For our group, that translated into meetings being canceled, moved and rescheduled throughout the day. Ultimately, we made it work, but the frustration among congressional members and their staffs was obvious. That larger environment also makes moving major legislation, including a comprehensive Farm Bill, difficult. Whatever the merits of an individual proposal, disagreement within and between the House and Senate can prevent issues from advancing. CUTTING THROUGH THE NOISE Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling was perhaps the clearest example of another challenge: disagreement within agriculture itself. Regardless of where someone stands on

12 California Cattleman October 2026

mandatory COOL, members of Congress are hearing strongly held arguments from cattle producers on both sides. Their questions reflected that: Would mandatory labeling better protect American ranchers? How would a mandatory system be implemented and enforced? What would it mean for animal identification? There was also considerable confusion between mandatory COOL and USDA's new voluntary “Product of USA” standard. We spent significant time explaining the distinction. Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, USDA's voluntary rule allows the “Product of USA” or “Made in the USA” claims on single-ingredient meat products only when the animal was born, raised, slaughtered and processed in the United States. The claim itself remains voluntary. The politics surrounding mandatory COOL have also created unusual coalitions. We heard interest from lawmakers with very different political philosophies, while others appeared reluctant to enter a debate that is dividing cattle producers themselves. For me, that highlighted a larger concern. When the cattle industry spends its time fighting internally, it becomes more difficult to focus policymakers on issues where ranchers share substantial common ground. That was ultimately one of the purposes of our trip: cut through the noise and focus Congress and the Administration on practical issues affecting California ranchers. Reopening cattle trade safely. Preparing for New World screwworm. Improving federal grazing relationships. Addressing regulatory obstacles. Advancing issues where ranchers can speak with a clearer voice. A trip to Washington rarely produces an immediate victory. That isn't really how this work happens. Progress comes from showing up, explaining how decisions affect ranchers back home, establishing credibility and then returning to those relationships when an opportunity arises. Time will tell what grows from the conversations we had during those two days. But for a few days in Washington, California ranchers had a seat at the table. We raised concerns, offered solutions and strengthened relationships on both sides of the aisle and throughout the Administration. Sometimes advocacy is about harvesting a victory and other times it is about planting and watering the seeds that make our future victories possible. This trip was about planting seeds.

B U L LS T H AT B U I L D B E T T E R COW H E R D S

California Stabilizer® & Registered Angus Sale Oct. 17 | Noon | Tulare County Stockyards | Dinuba, CA Selling 250 performance-tested Stabilizer® and Registered Angus bulls backed by industry-leading data and selected for commercial profitability.

WWW.LEACHMAN.COM/SALES | 307-788-7165 FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: RUSS PRINC | 970-413-0993 JERROD WATSON | 303-827-1156 JON DOLIESLAGER | 559-358-1070October 2026 California Cattleman A-12621920992

110 TH ANNUAL

CCA & CCW ANNUAL CONVENTION

+ California Cattle Industry Tradeshow DECEMBER 1-4

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14 California Cattleman October 2026

Ethan Lane

NATIONAL CATTLEMEN'S BEEF ASSOCIATION

Tentative Schedule

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2026 10:30 A.M. – 5 P.M.

CCA SCHOLARSHIP INTERVIEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2026 8 A.M. – 7:30 P.M. REGISTRATION OPEN 9 A.M. – 3 P.M. CRT BOARD MEETING 9 A.M. – 10 A.M. MANDATORY TRADESHOW EXHIBITOR/ ALLIED INDUSTRY MEETING 9 A.M. – 10 A.M. CCA OFFICERS MEETING 10:30 A.M. – 12 P.M. CALIFORNIA CATTLEMEN’S FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING 11 A.M. – 12 P.M. YCC NETWORKING IN THE TRADESHOW 11 A.M. – 12 P.M. A CALIFORNIA CATTLEWOMEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION INC. MEETING 12 P.M.- 9:30 P.M. CALIFORNIA CATTLE INDUSTRY TRADESHOW OPEN 12 P.M. – 1 P.M. CBCIA BOARD MEETING 1 P.M. – 2:15 P.M. YCC SOCIAL & CHUTE SIDE CONVERSATION 1:30 P.M. – 2:30 P.M. CCA FINANCE AND MEMBERSHIP MEETING 1:30 P.M. – 2:30 P.M. LEARNING LOUNGE IN THE TRADESHOW 2:30 P.M. – 3:30 P.M. CATTLE PAC MEETING 2:30 P.M. – 3:30 P.M. PRODUCER EDUCATION SERIES: PROFITABILITY 2:30 P.M. – 4 P.M. CCW EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING 4 P.M. – 5 P.M. OPENING GENERAL SESSION 5 P.M. – 6 P.M. LMRF MEETING 5 P.M. – 7 P.M. CRT RECEPTION 6 P.M. – 9 P.M. TRADESHOW WELCOME PARTY

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2026 6:30 A.M. – 7:30 A.M. PRAYER GATHERING 7 A.M. – 8 A.M. FIRE SUBCOMMITTEE MEETING 7 A.M. – 8 A.M. BREAKFAST IN THE TRADESHOW 7 A.M. – 1 P.M. CALIFORNIA CATTLE INDUSTRY TRADESHOW OPEN 7 A.M. – 5 P.M. REGISTRATION OPEN 8 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. GENERAL SESSION #2 9:30 A.M. – 10:45 A.M. CCW WORKSHOP 10 A.M. – 12 P.M. CATTLE HEALTH & WELL BEING COMMITTEE MEETING 10 A.M. – 12 P.M. CATTLE MARKETING & INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMITTEE MEETING 10 A.M. – 12 P.M. CCA FEDERAL LANDS COMMITTEE MEETING 11 A.M. – 1 P.M. COWBELLE OF THE YEAR LUNCH 12 P.M. – 1 P.M. LUNCH IN THE TRADESHOW 12 P.M. – 1 P.M. PAST PRESIDENTS LUNCH 1 P.M. CALIFORNIA CATTLE INDUSTRY TRADESHOW CLOSES 1 P.M. – 2 P.M. GENERAL SESSION #3 2 P.M. – 4 P.M. CATTLEMEN’S POSTER SESSION 2 P.M. – 4 P.M. PROPERTY RIGHTS & ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING 2 P.M. – 4 P.M. AGRICULTURE & FOOD POLICY/ TAX & CREDIT COMMITTEE MEETING 3 P.M. – 5 P.M. CCW BOARD AND MEMBERSHIP MEETING 4 P.M. – 5 P.M. LOCAL PRESIDENTS AND SECRETARIES MEETING 5 P.M. – 6 P.M. CCA PRESIDENT’S RECEPTION 6:30 P.M. – 9 P.M. CCA/CCW AWARDS RECEPTION & BANQUET

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2026 6:45 A.M. – 8 A.M. 7 A.M. – 9 A.M. 8:30 A.M. – 10 AM 9:30 A.M. – 11:30 A.M.

NOMINATING COMMITTEE MEETING CCW AWARDS BREAKFAST CCA BOARD AND MEMBERSHIP MEETING CCW NEW EXECUTIVE BOARD WORKSHOP

USE THE CODE CALIFORNIA CATTLEMEN October 2026 California Cattleman 15

YOUR DUES DOLLARS AT WORK LEGISLATING (AND LOBBYING) WITH URGENCY by CCA Vice President of Government Affairs Kirk Wilbur The California Constitution provides that “No bill may be passed by either house on or after Sept. 1” in the second year of a two-year session, meaning the Legislature must typically adjourn by midnight on Aug. 31. But in recent years the Legislature has struggled to complete their work by the end of August, partly because Proposition 54, passed by California voters in 2016, requires that bills be in print for 72 hours before lawmakers can vote on them – a requirement which frustrates efforts at last-minute dealmaking when legislators are under the gun. Fortunately for procrastinating politicians, the Constitution provides a loophole: urgency statutes may be taken up after Aug. 31. Urgency measures must pass each chamber of the Legislature by a two-thirds vote and take effect immediately upon being signed into law by the Governor. Legislative negotiations came down to the wire this year, with some bills not going into print until the early morning hours of Saturday, August 29. Those bills went into print with urgency clauses, ensuring that the Legislature could act on them during the morning hours of September 1 (the Legislature ultimately gaveled to a close around noon that day). Reflecting the sense of urgency in those bills, this month’s Your Dues Dollars at Work immediately recaps the impact of those measures on CCA’s legislative priorities.

16 California Cattleman October 2026

WOLF PROGRAM FUNDING MATERIALIZES IN THE FINAL DAYS OF SESSION CCA’s signature priority in the 2026-27 State Budget had been a push for $30.8 million to fund the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Wolf Program, including $25 million for the WolfLivestock Compensation Program and dedicated funds for collaring, Wolf Program staffing and research efforts underway by University of California Cooperative Extension agents. Despite overwhelming support among legislators and stakeholders, the effort to secure Wolf Program funding was an uphill battle amid a fourth-consecutive state budget deficit. When the Budget was signed into law on June 29, it contained no funding for wolf management, a seemingly bruising setback for CCA’s legislative agenda. But CCA never gave up the fight. In recent years the Legislature has revised the Budget well after the July 1 start of the fiscal year, and the legislature had explicitly punted some Budget questions – specifically how to dole out Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and Proposition 4 Climate Bond funds – until August, so CCA could conceivably have another bite at the apple. Accordingly, staff continued pressing the case for wolf management funding in the Capitol and in the press. At 3:42 a.m. on Aug. 29, those efforts finally bore fruit when AB 113, an amendment to the 2026-27 Budget, went into print. The measure provided $5 million for CDFW’s Wolf Program, of which at least half was earmarked for “wolf-livestock compensation.” While that sum falls far short of the $30.8 million CCA sought for wolf management, it nevertheless represents an immense success for the Association in a budget deficit year in which many legislators’ priority programs went unfunded or underfunded. And the $2.5 million for wolf-livestock compensation is the largest appropriation for the Program since it was first established in 2021. CCA’s work now turns to ensuring the Wolf Program funding is spent judiciously. The Association will press CDFW to utilize the $2.5 million not earmarked for compensation on priorities such as collaring multiple wolves in each of the state’s 11 identified packs. CCA will also work with CDFW and the Department of Finance to clarify whether this money is available over multiple years or whether it must

be spent by June 30, 2027. It should be noted that the $2.5 million for wolf-livestock compensation is in addition to the $2 million appropriated for the Program in the 202526 Budget, much of which remains unspent. To avoid those appropriations reverting to the state’s General Fund at the end of the fiscal year, CDFW announced on July 1 that it had granted those remaining funds to third parties to administer rancher compensation. Approximately $1.1 million was granted to the California Farm Bureau’s California Bountiful Foundation to administer direct-loss compensation, with additional funds granted to resource conservation districts and the Working Circle to provide assistance and training with non-lethal deterrence. LEGISLATORS ENHANCE WILDFIRE RESILIENCE INVESTMENTS Since 2021 the state has reliably invested $200 million annually from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund for forest health and wildfire resilience efforts. But funding available through the GGRF is declining due to market shifts and recent regulatory changes to the cap-and-invest program made by the California Air Resources Board. Additionally, last year’s SB 840 (Limón) restructured how GGRF proceeds are allocated, placing healthy forest and fire prevention programs in the lowest-priority tier for expenditures, Tier 3. As a result of these changes, recent projections from the Department of Finance indicated that only $38 million in GGRF funds would be available in the 2026-27 fiscal year for CAL FIRE’s wildfire resilience efforts. CCA, as part of the Wildfire Resilience Working Group, aggressively pushed for additional funding for forest health and wildfire resilience in the 2026-27 Budget. As with Wolf Program funding, those efforts have paid off, with Section 75 of AB 113 providing an additional $70 million in GGRF funding to CAL FIRE to be allocated to “healthy forest and fire prevention programs” and for “prescribed fire and other fuel reduction projects.” According to an analysis from the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee, the “$70 million for wildfire prevention programs at CalFIRE” is “in addition to Tier 3 continuous appropriations,” for a total GGRF wildfire preparedness outlay of $108 million. While this is a marked decline from prior-year appropriations, it is another significant victory in light of the worsening condition of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund. In addition to GGRF funding, AB 113 appropriated $329.5 million in 2026-27 wildfire mitigation funds from the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024, also known as Proposition 4. Included in that sum is $60 million for the Regional Forest and Fire Capacity Program, $35 million for the Forest Health Program and $25 million for a statewide community wildfire

mitigation program, among other programs. In total, AB 113 increases the state’s 2026-27 wildfire resilience appropriations to $437.5 million. ADDITIONAL PROPOSITION 4 INVESTMENTS BENEFITING RANCHERS In total, AB 113 appropriates $2.66 billion of the $10 billion in bond funds authorized under Proposition 4. In addition to the wildfire resilience funds detailed above, the budget legislation provides significant funding for drought and flood resilience, nature-based climate solutions and climate-smart agriculture. In total, $1.05 billion is allocated for drought and flood resilience, including $64 million for the Multibenefit Land Repurposing Program to address groundwater sustainability projects, $68 million for water conveyance repairs (of which $30 million is earmarked to address subsidence in State Water Project canals) and $75 million for flood management projects in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. $8 million has also been directed toward grants to farmers to facilitate Sustainable Groundwater Management Act compliance. Additionally, $288.4 million has been directed at nature-based climate solutions and $103.6 million has been set aside for climate-smart agriculture programs. A (TEMPORARY) FIX FOR GOATHERDER WAGES As the Legislature adjourned for Summer Recess in early July, headlines began to pop up across the state highlighting an employee wage crisis for goat grazing companies (“California goat grazing companies warn wage law could force closures” read one headline from a Sacramentoarea ABC affiliate). CCA staff began fielding phone calls from members and reporters curious about how the development might impact wildfire resilience, with goats in urban and suburban environments being one of the most visible examples for most Californians of fire fuels reduction through prescribed grazing. The topic came up as CCA staff and officers visited the Yolo County Cattlemen’s and Wool Growers Association in early August and became a mainstay of the Association’s “fall tour” meetings. While CCA doesn’t directly represent goat grazing operations, it made sense for producers, reporters and legislators to engage the Association on the matter: CCA has long supported prescribed livestock grazing for fire fuels suppression and we are the foremost trade association representing livestock producers in Sacramento. This summer’s goat herder wage crisis stemmed from a complicated legislative and regulatory framework. Ag overtime legislation passed in 2017 phased in mandatory overtime pay for agricultural workers working more than 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a week, though existing ...CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 October 2026 California Cattleman 17

...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 statute and the Industrial Welfare Commission’s Wage Order 14 provided for an alternate monthly minimum wage for sheepherders working 24/7 on-call shifts. While in practice this alternate monthly minimum wage had also been applied to goatherders, a California Labor Commission decision in March 2022 interpreted existing statute as strictly applying only to sheepherders, subjecting goatherders to the ordinary ag overtime rates set by AB 1066. To address this, the Legislature in 2022 passed legislation which applied that alternate monthly minimum wage to goatherders, extending the provision in 2023. But the 2023 legislation was merely a temporary fix. It provided that the alternate monthly minimum wage provision for goatherders would expire on July 1 of this year if the Legislature failed to act. While bills were introduced in the intervening years which sought to permanently address the problem, none became law. And so on July 1, goat herding companies were suddenly subject to the general minimum wage and ag overtime statutes, with monthly wages skyrocketing from about $4,900 per month to nearly $20,000 per month, threatening to bankrupt companies. Fortunately, in the waning days of Session legislators approved AB 187, budget legislation

18 California Cattleman October 2026

which reauthorizes the alternate monthly minimum wage for goatherders through Jan. 1, 2029. Now the Legislature must take additional action during the next two-year legislative session lest goat grazing operations again be subjected to the crisis they faced in July, August and early September. Though AB 187 was not an urgency statute – it was in print on August 28 and was voted on before the Constitutional deadline to approve bills in the ordinary course of business – it nevertheless represents a last-minute effort by the Legislature to address a pressing concern, and as a budget act it will also take effect immediately upon being signed into law by the governor. WHAT’S NEXT As of press time, Governor Newsom had yet to sign either AB 113 or AB 187 – the Governor has until September 30 to sign or veto any bills approved this year by the Legislature. While most bills will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027, both AB 113 and AB 187 would take effect immediately upon being signed into law. In next month’s edition of California Cattleman, CCA will detail how the association fared on every bill lobbied by CCA’s government affairs team in the second year of the 2025-26 Legislative Session.

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October 2026 California Cattleman

WHEN THE WATER TURNS

DEADLY

by Managing Editor Stevie Ipsen

BLUE-GREEN ALGAE CAN TRANSFORM A FAMILIAR STOCK-WATER SOURCE INTO A LETHAL THREAT

After using the same pond for years without any problem, Adin rancher Jim Copp, said the sudden death of nine cows in a short time period in early August was alarming. He never assumed the cause would be the 20-acre pond in the middle of a 175 acre pasture where his cattle have grazed for years. For generations, stock ponds, reservoirs and other surface-water sources have been part of the infrastructure of western ranching. Cattle find the water, drink and move back onto grass. Most days, there is little reason to give their routine much thought. But under the right (or wrong) conditions, that familiar water source can become dangerous. After the first premature calf died, Copp said they weren't too concerned. But after a couple more, he thought they might have a bull problem. "After using the same pond for years, we didn't give a thought to the water being the issue," Copp said. "But the cows would have a breech calf born dead, live a couple of days themselves and then die. In a market like this, losing one cow is too many." Copp said after several more deaths they began to look deeper. The pond, while clear in most areas had developed an abnormally thick algae in one area. They moved the remaining 100-plus cows to a different pasture and ordered some algae test kits. "The kits were going to take a while to be delivered so we did some research and treated the pond with copper sulfate," Copp said. "The tests all came back negative but the bluegreen algae grew back. We treated it again and so far, so good." Most people assume that algae blooms are more active at lower elevations than the high desert of Modoc County, but Copp said that assumption can be misleading. 22 California Cattleman October 2026

"With a light winter and an early hot summer, I think we had a perfect storm brewing," Copp said. "Our pond is usually very clean but we definitly learned the hard way this year." Copp's experience illustrates one of the difficult aspects of cyanobacterial poisoning: a problem can develop in water cattle have used before without incident. IT ISN'T REALLY ALGAE Despite the familiar name "blue-green algae," the organisms responsible are cyanobacteria—photosynthetic bacteria naturally found in freshwater environments. Their presence alone does not necessarily mean water is dangerous. Problems develop when environmental conditions encourage rapid growth, creating what is commonly called a harmful algal bloom, or HAB. Warm temperatures, sunlight, relatively stagnant water and elevated nutrient levels can create favorable conditions. Nitrogen and phosphorus entering water through soil erosion, manure or fertilizer runoff can contribute to bloom development. Blooms have traditionally received the most attention during summer and early fall. But they should not be viewed exclusively as a late-summer problem. California water officials report freshwater harmful algal blooms during all months of the year, with drought conditions in some areas allowing blooms to persist longer. The important distinction for cattle producers is that not every cyanobacterial bloom produces dangerous concentrations of toxins—and appearance alone cannot determine whether one does, which makes prevention difficult. A pond may look suspicious and prove

harmless. Another may contain dangerous toxins without displaying the dramatic layer of bright green material producers associate with blue-green algae. TWO VERY DIFFERENT ATTACKS Cyanobacteria can produce several toxins, but two major effects are especially important when cattle are involved: damage to the nervous system and damage to the liver. But according to veterinarians, neurotoxins can act rapidly. Affected cattle may exhibit muscle tremors, weakness, staggering, difficulty breathing, convulsions or an inability to stand. In severe exposures, death can follow quickly. Hepatotoxins attack the liver. Signs can include weakness, pale mucous membranes, gastrointestinal problems, bloody diarrhea and neurological abnormalities. Cattle surviving liver damage can subsequently develop photosensitization, making light-colored or unpigmented areas of skin particularly susceptible to sunlight. In either situation, the producer may have very little opportunity to intervene. Sometimes the first indication of trouble is not visibly sick cattle. It is dead cattle near a pond. That is one reason unexplained deaths around a common water source deserve immediate attention. WHY ONE CORNER OF A POND MATTERS A bloom is not necessarily distributed evenly across a body of water.

Wind can push floating cyanobacteria toward one shoreline, concentrating material into a relatively small area. A pond that looks relatively normal from one side may have scum or mats accumulating along the opposite bank. That makes checking cattle water more involved than simply driving past the nearest side. Producers should look at the downwind shoreline and livestock access points. Suspicious water may appear bright green, blue-green, brown or reddish. Material can resemble spilled paint, pea soup, streaks, mats, foam or surface scum. Dead fish, birds or small animals around the water can also be warning signs. But visual inspection has an important limitation: toxins cannot be reliably identified by sight. A producer therefore should not assume that water is safe simply because it does not match a photograph of a textbook blue-green algae bloom. WHEN CATTLE BEGIN DYING When cyanobacteria poisoning is suspected, protecting the rest of the herd becomes the immediate priority. Cattle should be removed from the questionable water source and provided clean alternative water. A veterinarian should be contacted as soon as possible, particularly when animals are showing neurological signs or multiple unexplained deaths have occurred. Veterinary examination and necropsy are ...CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

October 2026 California Cattleman

...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23 also important because sudden cattle deaths have numerous possible causes. Water samples, tissues and other diagnostic material can help distinguish cyanotoxin exposure from other diseases or toxicities. Sampling should be done carefully. Cyanotoxins can affect people as well as livestock, so appropriate protective measures should be used when handling suspicious water or algal material. Treatment options for severely poisoned cattle are limited. There is no simple antidote that makes cyanotoxin exposure comparable to treating many routine livestock illnesses. Supportive veterinary treatment may help in some circumstances, but severe exposures can progress rapidly. That reality shifts much of the emphasis from treatment to prevention. PREVENTION STARTS BEFORE THE BLOOM For western ranchers, eliminating surface water is rarely practical. Ponds, reservoirs and other natural or constructed water sources may be essential to grazing large pastures. Instead, the goal is recognizing conditions that increase risk and monitoring those sources accordingly. Hot weather, falling water levels, stagnant conditions and visible algal growth should increase scrutiny. Nutrient management around ponds can also matter. Limiting unnecessary fertilizer and manure runoff and reducing erosion into livestock water can help reduce nutrients available to cyanobacteria. Where practical, alternative watering systems can reduce cattle's direct access to ponds. Fencing a questionable water source and pumping water to a trough may provide greater control over what cattle consume. Ranchers should also be cautious about attempting to simply kill a bloom and immediately return cattle to the water. When cyanobacterial cells die, toxins can be released into the water. A pond that looks cleaner following treatment is not automatically safe to drink. Testing and professional guidance are preferable when a harmful bloom is suspected. A WATER PROBLEM WORTH WATCHING Water quality has always been

24 California Cattleman October 2026

fundamental to livestock production, but it can receive less attention than forage quality, animal health or nutrition until something goes wrong. Blue-green algae is a reminder that having water and having safe water are not necessarily the same thing. California's harmful algal bloom monitoring program reports blooms in lakes, reservoirs and rivers throughout the state. State agencies have also documented that harmful blooms can affect livestock and other domestic animals. For cattle producers, however, the issue becomes far more tangible when the affected water isn't a public lake or reservoir. It's the pond in the pasture. It's the place cattle have watered all summer. And sometimes it is a water source they have used safely for years. Copp says he wishes he'd known then what he knows now about the silent but deadly killer algae. "I really knew very little about it and I hope my situation can save someone else some grief. Pay attention to all areas of your pond because if you don't it could quickly be too late," Copp said. "I still see some blue-geen tint to the rocks and I will be keeping a close eye on the pond in the future." Copp's experience can leave readers with the central message of the story: blue-green algae does not have to be common on a ranch to be consequential. A single toxic bloom in the wrong water source can turn an everyday part of cattle production into a serious herd-health emergency. GABRIELE MAIER, DVM, AND JOSH DAVY WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES PUBLISHED A COMPREHENSIVE ARTICLE ON BLUE-GREEN ALGAE THAT CAN ASSIST PRODUCERS IN PREVENTING AND TESTING FOR ALGAE BLOOM. TO ACCESS THAT ARTICLE, SCAN THE CODE HERE.

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EXECUTIVE ORDERS TRUMP'S AGRICULTURE EXECUTIVE ORDERS AND THE RANCHER'S FIRST INITIATIVE AS OUTLINED BY USDA from the United States Department of Agriculture EDITOR'S NOTE: Some of the policies and perspectives in this USDA press release may not reflect the perspectives of CCA as established through member-driven policy. It is published here for informational purposes.

“While the Biden administration chose to villainize ranching and the rural way of life under the guise of radical environmental mandates, the Trump Administration continues to focus on rebuilding the Great American Cattle Herd,” said Secretary Rollins. “For the past 19 months, USDA has worked tirelessly [On Sept. 4,] President Donald J. Trump signed to defend and promote our nation’s ranchers. two Executive Orders supporting America’s ranchers Through our Beef Plan and the Ranchers First and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins Initiative we are working to continue increasing our made additional announcements protecting our nation’s heifer retention rate. Today, the President nation’s cattle herd and providing transparency for laid out tools to better equip farmers and ranchers consumers. American ranchers embody the ethos to deal with dangerous predators threatening their of our nation’s founding 250 years ago and should livestock, provide more transparency for consumers be provided with the tools to rebuild our Great on where their meat originates, and expand market American Cattle Herd. opportunities while maintaining our world class In addition to the two Executive Orders, USDA food safety standards. President Trump is focused also announced four additional actions it is taking to on delivering an America First agenda and will do follow-up on the USDA Plan to Fortify the American that by continuing to put our Ranchers First.” Beef Industry (2025 USDA Beef Plan) released last year, and the Ranchers First Initiative released earlier EXECUTIVE ORDERS the same week. SUPPORTING AMERICAS RANCHERS USDA also launched a new webpage, highlighting the Trump Administration's undisputed Combat Predation: American ranchers should be able to protect the cattle they raise. status as the most pro-rancher administration The Executive Order directs the Secretary of in history. This is in stark contrast to the war on the Interior to determine whether gray wolves ranchers waged by the previous administration. or Mexican wolves meet the criteria for delisting [USDA says the] actions are timely, as the U.S. maintains the smallest herd since the 1950s, and will or downlisting under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and begin the process of delisting or continue to build on the turnaround we are seeing downlisting them. in the number of heifers being retained. These The Department of the Interior and the announcements add to a historic number of actions the Trump Administration has taken to support our Department of Agriculture are also directed to nation’s ranchers. update their standards for compensating ranchers

28 California Cattleman October 2026

for losses due to predators, and to ease authorization for lethal removal when necessary.

smartphones and a customized, easy to use app), with a data management and oversight program to enable USDA to assign grades to beef Country of Origin Labeling: American consumers carcasses from an offsite location. Through this deserve clear, honest labels — and country of origin program, AMS is adopting emerging technology labeling delivers that transparency. to modernize USDA beef grading services and Building on the voluntary Product of USA label, improve efficiency, consistency, and accuracy for a the Executive Order directs the Department of more competitive and transparent marketplace. Agriculture, in consultation with the United States Expanding AMS Instrument-Enhanced Grading Trade Representative, to review its authorities Program: USDA will increase adoption of the related to mandatory country of origin labeling Instrument-Enhanced Grading (IEG) Program, now for beef products through new regulations and used on approximately 20% of fed cattle (20,000 legislative recommendations. head/day) slaughtered in the U.S. Under IEG, facilities can reduce grader staffing, sometimes PROMOTING FAIR COMPETITION IN LIVESTOCK MARKETS AND EXPANDING MARKET ACCESS FOR by as much as half, resulting in significant cost savings. AMERICAN MEAT PRODUCERS Strengthening Packer Competition: American ranchers deserve fair, competitive markets that reward their hard work, not a marketplace dominated by a handful of concentrated packers. The Executive Order directs USDA to prioritize investigations into potential violations of the Packers and Stockyards Act and increase enforcement resources and staffing. The Executive Order also directs USDA to continue close coordination with the Department of Justice and report to the President on current enforcement actions, resource needs, and a plan to strengthen enforcement over the next year. Expanding Processing and Market Access: Small and regional processors are critical to expanding competition and giving ranchers more options to get their cattle to market without compromising food safety. The Executive Order directs USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service to expand the Cooperative Interstate Shipment and Talmadge-Aiken programs so more state-inspected meat can cross state lines. The Executive Order further directs USDA to build a "one-stop shop" and dedicated technical assistance program for small and very small processors and modernize meat inspection regulations to cut unnecessary red tape. ADDITIONAL RANCHERS FIRST INITIATIVE ANNOUNCEMENTS: Increasing Grazing Lands Enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP): USDA will enroll nearly 1 million new acres in Grasslands CRP, providing ranchers with rental payments and cost share assistance to maintain rangeland and pastureland as grazing areas. Growing AMS Remote Grading Program: USDA will work to nearly double the number of producers and plants in the AMS Remote Grading Program. This program matches simple technology (e.g.,

Leveraging USDA Lawfare Apparatus: USDA will refocus its robust strike force team dedicated to combatting instances of agricultural lawfare on the federal, state, and local levels, to address and counter abusive legal actions that threaten ranching operations, particularly cases involving unfair or excessive eminent domain claims. PREVIOUS RANCHERS FIRST INITIATIVE ANNOUNCEMENTS: Rebuild the Great American Beef Herd: Developing new tools to support heifer retention, including the creation of the Beef Retention and National Development (BRAND) endorsement for Livestock Risk Protection. Risk Management Tools: Speeding up recovery after wildfires and other natural disasters by allowing producers to use the Emergency Conservation Program on acres enrolled in the Grassland Conservation Reserve Program. SPUR 2.0 Guaranteed Loan Program: Creating a Strengthening Processing for U.S. Ranchers (SPUR) Guaranteed Loan Program to support regional processing, including establishing processor co-ops, expanding small business footprints, and increasing the variety of animal proteins being processed. Buying American Beef: Prioritizing local American beef in federal spending in state and federal facilities by working with other departments including the U.S. Department of War, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Department of Justice, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Focusing on the Future of American Ranching: Establishing a new initiative focused on supporting beginning and veteran farmers and ranchers. ...CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

October 2026 California Cattleman

...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29 ADDITIONAL ACTIONS BY THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO HELP RANCHERS: Robust New World Screwworm Response: Coordinated strong, whole-of-government approach to combat New World Screwworm and protect the U.S. cattle supply. 20 New Trade Deals and Frameworks: Expanded global market options for American farmers and ranchers through new trade deals and frameworks with Jordan, China, Ecuador, United Kingdom, Indonesia, North Macedonia, Taiwan, El Salvador, Guatemala, Switzerland, Argentina, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, South Korea, European Union, Nigeria, and Australia. Strengthening Processing for U.S. Ranchers Program (SPUR): Provided $500 million to help small and mid‑sized beef processors, protecting regional processing capacity. Lower the Cost of Fertilizer: Provided $500 million to onshore fertilizer production and lower costs with the Fertilizer Investment & Expansion for Long Term Domestic Supply (FIELDS) Program. Increasing Transparency in Packers and Stockyards Enforcement Actions: Launched GovDelivery sign‑ups for Packers & Stockyards enforcement actions to boost public awareness and accountability. Beef Grading Standards Updates: Asked for public input on updating the U.S. beef carcass grading standards to better meet the needs of producers and consumers. Expanding Access to Locally Raised Beef for American Students: Launched the Harvest to Hallways initiative August 2026. Equipment for Schools: Invested $7.5 million in cold‑chain equipment for food banks to deliver more meat and whole foods to families in need. Veterinarian Loan Repayment: Supported loan repayment for rural veterinarians by increasing funding for the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program by $7.5 million and streamlining the application process via an online portal. Supporting Rural Veterinary Clinics: Increased funding for the Veterinary Services Grant Program by $7.5M and streamlined the application and reporting processes to support rural veterinary practices. Expanding USDA Veterinary Scholarships: Increased support for veterinary students by doubling the number of scholarships available and increasing the scholarship amount to $40,000-$50,000 per year for various scholarship programs under USDA, the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service Scholarship Program, the USDA Animal and Plant Health

30 California Cattleman October 2026

Inspection Service, the Chester A. Gipson Internship Program, and the Saul T. Wilson, Jr. Internship Program. BEEF INDUSTRY RESPONSE While many beef industry groups appreciate the President's efforts behind the initiative and executive orders, reactions are mixed. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA), for example, has expressed strong concerns about several of the action items and the approach USDA is taking on them. As California ranchers know too well, Gray wolves are independently listed as endangered under the California Endangered Species Act, meaning their protections do not simply disappear if the Trump administration removes federal safeguards. Gray wolves have been protected under California law since 2014, and it remains illegal to hunt, pursue capture or kill a wolf in the state without lawful authorization. Furthermore, federal delisting efforts in 2013 and 2019 were stymied by litigation. Mandadory County of Origin Labeling (mCOOL) remains one of the most hotly-contested issues across the beef industry as prior attempts have proven costly and ineffective. In a statement from NCBA just prior to the executive order announcement, the group said it strongly supports increasing competition in cattle markets and creating more opportunities for small and regional beef processors as well as eliminating unnecessary regulations that make it harder for those businesses to compete. But NCBA feels weakening federal meat inspection and food safety standards, as President Trump has suggested, is not the answer. A press release from NCBA said, "For generations, cattle producers have invested in building consumer confidence in American beef and creating the gold standard of food safety systems. Putting that trust at risk in pursuit of a short-term political solution would be a serious mistake. Beef sold to American consumers should continue to meet rigorous, science-based food safety and inspection standards, regardless of the size of the processor. "...Now we are faced with another proposal aimed at changing how beef is processed. Constant government interference creates uncertainty for producers making long-term decisions about their businesses and the future of the cattle herd. "If the Administration wants to help cattle producers, it should focus on reducing legitimate regulatory burdens, lowering fuel and fertilizer prices, protecting the U.S. cattle herd from foreign animal disease, and expanding opportunities for mid-size and regional cattle processors. America’s farmers and ranchers know how to produce safe, high-quality beef. American consumers trust the beef we produce. Washington needs to stop trying to manage the cattle business and let the market work."

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RESILIENCY AND OPTIMISM ABOUND CALIFORNIA BULL SALE SEASON INDICATES EXCITEMENT FOR THE YEAR AHEAD by Matt Macfarlane for California Cattleman The California fall bull sale season is in full swing and if the results to date tell us anything, it is that resiliency and optimism remain alive and well in the commercial cattle business. California bull sales have been wildly successful despite several outside influences creating uncertainty and pressure at the commercial level. Drought and wildfires continue to challenge producers across cattle country, while rising fuel and transportation costs continue to increase the expense of doing business. At the same time, the recent expansion of imported South American beef and reopening of the Mexican border to cattle imports have added another layer of uncertainty to an already volatile commercial market. Cattle prices have taken a noticeable hit over the past month, yet when put into perspective, they remain historically strong and well above the levels producers experienced throughout much of the previous five years. Yet California's bull buyers haven't blinked. As of this writing, nearly 1,300 bulls have sold

32 California Cattleman October 2026

at public auction for an impressive average over $15,000 per head. Compared with a year ago, individual sale averages have increased anywhere from approximately $1,500 to $5,000 per bull—a remarkable show of strength considering the outside pressures facing the industry. And we're not done yet. Demand remains extremely strong, and to this point, we simply haven't hit the wall. Bull numbers have been readily absorbed, and the normal laws of supply and demand have yet to put a meaningful ceiling on what commercial cattlemen are willing to invest in quality genetics. Perhaps even more interesting is where that demand is concentrated. Calving ease still reigns supreme when it comes to real-world value in the commercial sector. That might seem surprising considering the U.S. cow herd remains historically tight and widespread heifer retention has yet to materialize in a meaningful way. But when you look deeper, the demand makes sense. ...CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

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producers throughout our state. Whether it is representing the industry in Sacramento and Washington, D.C., protecting private property High cull-cow and butcher-bull values have given producers an opportunity to aggressively and grazing rights, addressing regulatory market older and less productive animals. At challenges or simply making sure the voice of the same time, many operations are looking California cattlemen is heard, CCA continues toward younger, more athletic bulls that can to fight for the people who make their living in effectively service both cows and heifers. A this business. proven calving-ease bull gives a commercial And the reality is that the benefits of that producer flexibility—he can be used on heifers work extend well beyond CCA’s membership. today without sacrificing his usefulness in the Producers who aren't members still benefit mature cow herd tomorrow. That versatility has from the battles being fought and the victories real value. being won on behalf of California agriculture. What we are seeing in California isn't So, if you're reading this and you're not necessarily an industry rapidly expanding currently a member, I strongly encourage you its cow numbers. Rather, it appears to be an to get involved, join the California Cattlemen’s industry reinvesting in the cattle it already has— Association and pay your dues. An organization upgrading bull batteries, replacing older sires, is only as strong as the people willing to stand improving genetics and positioning operations behind it, and if we expect someone to continue for the opportunities ahead. fighting for our industry, we all need to be Plus, we have another reason for optimism as willing to help support that fight. we look toward winter. El Niño is strengthening The cattle business has always been built on in the Pacific, and current forecasts are pointing people who show up, get involved and support toward the possibility of a very strong event this WPP.CA CATTLEMAN_AD.qxp_BULL BOOK AD 1/26/26 9:12 AM Page 1 one another. Now is no different. winter. For California cattlemen who understand better than most that everything starts with moisture, even the prospect of a good winter brings renewed optimism. Green hills, full stock ponds, improved forage conditions and a longer grazing season can change the outlook of an operation in a hurry. Of course, El Niño is no guarantee that every region of California will receive aboveaverage rainfall. But after years when drought and feed costs have dictated so many management decisions, the possibility of a favorable moisture year gives LARGE INVENTORY producers another reason to look ahead with MOBILE TECHNICIANS confidence. Finally, we would like to extend a sincere RANCHER OWNED thank you to the loyal advertisers who BRENTWOOD, CA & BURNS, OR continue to utilize California Cattleman magazine for their marketing needs. Their CALL TODAY: 800-718-7784 continued support allows this publication to remain the most established and trusted monthly serving California’s cattle industry. That same appreciation extends to the California Cattlemen’s Association and the work it continues to do on behalf of cattle ...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 32

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Powder River has been a long-time partner with the California CattleWomen (CCW) by donating all sorts of products as prizes in various fundraising activities. Through the years, the partnership has raised thousands of dollars for local and statewide beef promotions that promoted cattle, beef and agriculture. Using Powder River's product donation at last year’s CCA/CCW Convention in Reno, Nev., the partnership generated approximately $10,000. This supported CCW scholarships, unit promotional printing projects and promotional funds for the California Cattlewomen Heritage Foundation Inc. Grant funds were allocated for printing grants; seven units were chosen. • Siskiyou County CattleWomen received $400 to create a two-sided road sign for Beef Promotion. • The Tehama County CattleWomen requested $382.88 to design a retractable sign for Beef Promotion. • Madera County CattleWomen purchased a banner for their beef promotion events for $158.94. • The Amador-El Dorado-Sacramento County CattleWomen used $382.94 to print handouts on

beef byproducts and coloring sheets. • The Tulare County CattleWomen purchased imprinted bags for beef education material using their $400 grant. • The Humboldt County CattleWomen used $400 to silk-screen aprons for a beef promotion effort. • The San Diego Cowbelles used $215.37 to print posters to display information on the environment, cattle, and nutrition. The 2026 Powder River Fundraiser will be coordinated through the “A California Cattlewomen Heritage Foundation Inc.” For a $50 donation, participants will receive a ticket for a draw of $4,000 in Powder River products. The winning ticket will be chosen on Dec. 4, during the CCW awards ceremony at the Atlantis Casino and Hotel in Reno. This year’s funds will be divided into 75 percent for CCW and 25 percent for the California Cattlewomen Heritage Foundation. The 75 percent for CCW will be split 50/50: 37.5 percent to the scholarship account and 37.5 percent to the Units who sell tickets. The winner will be notified and does not need to be present. Contact CCW President Debbie Costa for tickets at (209) 327-2742.

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NATIONAL PERSPECTIVE A PLAN MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE by NCBA President Gene Copenhaver One of the best things we can do as a service to the cattle industry is to ensure the next generation can carry it forward. While succession planning is often one of the most difficult conversations farm and ranch families face, it is also one of the most important. These discussions can be especially challenging for families whose roots run deep on the same land and livestock across generations. I understand. I’m the fifth generation on my family’s cattle farm in Virginia. Without those difficult conversations, I could not have raised my children on the farm and watched my grandchildren enjoy this lifestyle as well. I’ve been through transition planning with my own children, so I know it is uncomfortable. My son, Will, helps me manage the farm and make business decisions. He will be able to seamlessly take over one day — along with his siblings if they want to return to the operation — because we have already begun the transition process. I had a long career as an ag lender, and I did financing for a lot of legacy farms. I saw my share of families who never shared the books with the incoming generation of owners. Those operations were faced with preventable challenges when the primary manager passed away, and the loss was compounded by the burden the operation became. I saw plenty who did it right, too. Those were the people who met with their financial advisors and legal consultants to build frameworks to transition the operation into new hands. They also shared their institutional knowledge with their kids and grandkids to instill confidence in them as they take over the farm. Passing along wisdom, both failures and successes, is just as valuable as passing on land and cattle. We owe it to our loved ones to give them the tools to succeed as cattlemen and women. Multi-generational operations are vital to our industry, but we also need to assist firstgeneration farmers and ranchers. In my career, I helped many eager and talented beginning producers access the capital they needed to start an operation. Meanwhile, there are plenty of producers looking to retire who have a lifetime of knowledge to share. We can create pathways for young producers by connecting these generations through mentorship and transition opportunities. Sometimes, succession

38 California Cattleman October 2026

planning happens outside the family to give passionate young cattlemen and women a chance to succeed. Every operation is unique, but I have learned that having a plan makes all the difference. That’s why NCBA is focused on giving producers practical tools to get started. This summer, NCBA launched an online learning module that guides families through the steps of transition and helps them tailor a plan to their operation and goals. It is accompanied by a workbook producers can use to assess where they are and develop a plan that is adaptable as the operation evolves. This resource is one of the ways NCBA is supporting the next generation of cattle producers and industry leaders. NCBA is providing producers with resources, tools and expert insight so we can complete the transition process confidently and before a crisis. Without preparation, we risk losing a lifetime of hard work and leaving our loved ones with a burden. The cattle business is built on strong people and communities, and it’s our responsibility to make sure the next generations carry that forward. Our industry needs young cattlemen and women who are equipped to become owners, managers and leaders. The future of our industry depends on successful family transition. With 95% of U.S. farms and ranches remaining family-owned, agriculture depends on empowering young producers to continue their family legacies. Using tools like NCBA’s new online module and workbook, we can secure business continuity and reduce stress for our families. Our operations are going to undergo a transition at some point, whether we are ready for it or not, so let’s be proactive and implement structured plans. I encourage you to complete the module on NCBA.org, even if you have already started transitioning the farm or ranch. Use the workbook to evaluate your succession plan or as the foundation to create one. I know these conversations can be difficult, but the best gift we can give our children is a clear path forward.

October 2026 California Cattleman

REGISTER TODAY FOR CATTLECON 2027 IN NASHVILLE, TENN. There is plenty to see and do, so plan to come early and stay a little longer. Some activities, including American National CattleWomen meetings begin on Sunday, and NCBA Policy Committee and Region meetings are on Monday, Feb. 1. The Opening General Session and NCBA Trade Show officially kick things off on Tuesday. Stick around for postshow activities on Friday, including the Grazing Management Workshop and Tour, as well as the NCBA Agricultural Tour. CattleCon 2027 features popular events such as Cattlemen’s College, CattleFax Outlook Session, D.C. Issues Update, Cattle Feeders Hall of Fame Banquet, Prime Cut Awards Ceremony, along with more surprises to be announced. Attendees can dig in deeper by participating in NCBA policy meetings and guiding Beef Checkoff committee discussions. NCBA, the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, American National CattleWomen, CattleFax and National Cattlemen’s Foundation also hold annual meetings during this event, so come to hear the priorities and updates of these associations. For many attendees, the award-winning NCBA Trade Show is where they’ll spend much of their time, exploring acres of displays as well as live cattle handling demonstrations, educational **IMPORTANT: BUSINESS MEETINGS BEGIN FEB. 1, 2027** sessions and entertainment. The Marquee Stage returns featuring engaging sessions with industry experts. Meet with trade show exhibitors as they showcase the Registration latest advancements from & g sin ou H equipment and technology to pharmaceuticals and feed NOW OPEN! supplements, all conveniently located under one roof. Register soon for the best rates and housing selection. For more information and to register for next year's event, visit convention.ncba.org.

The leading cattle industry event, packed with education, networking and a top-tier trade show, is returning to the Music City Center in downtown Nashville, Tennessee, Feb. 2-4, 2027, with business meetings beginning Feb. 1. CattleCon attendee registration and housing are now open at convention.ncba.org. As the cattle industry continues to evolve, CattleCon 2027 offers cattlemen and women the chance to stay ahead of what’s next and step up as leaders of the industry. Gain practical insights, explore the latest innovations, connect with leaders and peers, and participate in discussions that will help shape the future of the beef cattle business. More than an annual convention, CattleCon is where producers invest in themselves — building the knowledge, relationships and opportunities that position their operations for success. “Whether you are part of a multi-generation ranch or just getting started in the cattle business, CattleCon 2027 has something for everyone,” said NCBA President Gene Copenhaver. “I’m looking forward to welcoming everyone to Nashville to experience the best our business has to offer.”

40 California Cattleman October 2026

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October 2026 California Cattleman

CATTLEMEN’S REPORT

July, August and September 2026 California Cattleman advertisers are represented in this sale report. VINTAGE ANGUS RANCH 32nd Annual "Carcass Maker" Bull Sale with Sierra Ranches

Sept. 3, LaGrange Col. Rick Machado

225 Angus bulls.................................................$18,218 14 open fall heifers............................................$5,357 BYRD CATTLE COMPANY "Distinctly Different" Bull & Female Sale

Sept. 4, Los Molinos Col. Rick Machado and Col. Jayden Byrd 80 Angus bulls..................................................$23,481 120 female lots..................................................$24,329

Jeff McKee Anthony Stornetta and Seth Scribner and Pat Molnar and Sam Travoli all attended the Vintage Angus Ranch Bull Sale in LaGrange on Sept. 3.

DUNIPACE ANGUS & BAR KJ ANGUS BULL SALE

Sept. 5, Farmington Col. Rick Machado and Col. Jake Parnell Managed by Parnell Dickinson 140 Angus bulls.................................................. $11,735 RHOADES RANCH ANGUS GENETICS

Angus production sale featuring ranch horses

Sept. 5, Cambria Col. Wes Tieman and Col. Randy Baxley Managed by CK6 Consulting

Jared Kerr and Pat Kirby at Dunipace Angus.

Matthew, Sheila and Jeff Bowen at Genoa Livestock in Minden, Nev.

John Vincent, James Grantham, Sam Swan, Julie Ketscher and Mike Massey at the Visalia Range Select Bull Sale.

102 Angus bulls.............................................. $19,260 4 ranch horses...............................................$44,750 6 open Angus heifers.................................$99,583 2 stock dogs....................................................... $9,750 HERITAGE BULL SALE Bar R Angus, Tri-T Farms and Toledo Ranches

Sept. 7, Minden, Nev. Col. Jake Parnell Managed by Parnell-Dickinson, Inc. 66 Angus bulls..................................................$12,178

Bull developer Joe Clarot with Elwood Ranch's Will Harrison.

Col. John Rodgers catches up with Rancho Casino's David Medeiros.

42 California Cattleman October 2026

Todd Radelfinger, Col. Randy Parnell, George Gookin and Col. Jake Parnell at the Dunipace Angus and Bar KJ Bull Sale.

Genoa Livestock Manager Chris Beckwith ringmen Jared Patterson and Rod Wesselman.

Jim and Karen Vietheer with bull buyer Mark McClintock.

GENOA LIVESTOCK Hereford Bull & Female Sale

THE CHOSEN BULL SALE

Sept. 7, Minden, Nev. Col. Rick Machado

Sept. 14, Turlock Col. Matt Lowery Managed by The Judge Source

58 Hereford bulls...........................................$11,844

66 Angus bulls.................................................$13,386

O'NEAL RANCH "Performance Plus" Angus Bull Sale

Sept. 8, Madera Col. Jake Parnell

71 Angus bulls................................................... $11,577 TEIXEIRA CATTLE COMPANY "Sale by the Sea"

Sept. 9, Pismo Beach

Col. Rick Machado

65 bulls................................................................. $13,500 9 females..............................................................$8,250 43 commercial bred females..................$5,325 DONATI RANCH ANGUS BULL SALE

Sept. 10, Oroville Col. Rick Machado and Col. Jake Parnell Managed by M3 Cattle Marketing 138 Angus bulls................................................$13,601 TEHAMA ANGUS RANCH 52nd Annual Bull Sale

Sept. 11, Gerber Col. Rick Machado and Col. Jake Parnell Managed by M3 Cattle Marketing 161 Angus bulls................................................. $15,731 37 commercial open heifers................... $5,025 ARELLANO BRAVO ANGUS BULL SALE

Sept. 13, Walnut Grove Col. Trent Stewart

71 Angus bulls.................................................. $10,189 VISALIA LIVESTOCK'S 32nd Annual "Range Ready" Bull Sale

Sept. 13, Visalia Col. Randy Baxley

115 bulls..................................................................$11,467 144 commercial bred cows....................... $4,172 25 commercial pairs.....................................$4,282 4 ranch horses.................................................. $6,562

THOMAS ANGUS RANCH CALIFORNIA BULL SALE

Sept. 15, Galt

Col. Jake Parnell Managed by Cotton & Associates 54 Angus bulls.................................................$13,027 PERFORMANCE ADVANTAGE BULL SALE with Old Stage Angus & Veenendaal Angus

Sept. 16, Hanford Col. Dustin Burkhart

66 Angus bulls. ………………………………………….$9,471 GONSALVES RANCH BULL SALE

Sept. 16, Modesto Col. Max Olvera Managed by The Judge Source

64 bulls................................................................. $10,109 35th RANCHO CASINO & DAL PORTO LIVESTOCK ANGUS BULLS SALE

Sept. 17, Denair Col. Rick Machado and Col. Max Olvera

134 Angus bulls.............................................. $14,492 DIXIE VALLEY ANGUS BULL SALE with O'Connell Ranch Angus bulls

Sept. 18, Galt

Col. Jake Parnell Managed by M3 Marketing 71 Angus bulls....................................................$12,095 WARD RANCHES INAUGURAL FALL BULL SALE

Sept. 19, Gardnerville Col. Eric Duarte Managed by M3 Marketing

15 spring yearling bulls............................... $10,666 29 fall yearlings bulls...................................... $7,948 44 total bulls........................................................ $8,875

October 2026 California Cattleman

IN MEMORY JERRY OWENS Gerald Hart (Jerry) Owens Gerald Hart “Jerry” Owens passed away on Aug. 16, 2026, in Chico, after a year-long battle with cancer. He was born on May 28, 1950, in Red Bluff. Jerry’s life was closely tied to the places that shaped him and to the work that defined him. He and his family have seasonally moved cattle from ranches in Northern California to ranches in Southern Oregon for decades. He attended grade school in Red Bluff and Klamath Falls, Ore., later graduating from Red Bluff High School in 1969. He continued his education at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, carrying forward the foundation that would support a life centered on family and ranching. From the time Jerry was old enough to ride a horse until he fell sick a year ago, he worked

44 California Cattleman October 2026

on his family ranches. Ranching was more than his work; it was a legacy he cared deeply about preserving. It was especially important to him to pass on to his sons and grandchildren the knowledge, experience, and practical tools that would allow them to build ranching businesses of their own, if they chose that path. Jerry met his wife, Jennifer Elston Owens, at the annual Woolgrowers Field Day in the spring of 1968. After high school, he left for Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and Jennifer attended Shasta College and then CSU Chico. They got married on January 12, 1974. Together, they built a family that filled their hearts with pride. Jerry is survived by his wife, Jennifer Owens; by his son Matthew Owens and Matthew’s wife, Deana Poore Owens, and their children, Elaina and Bryce; by his son Adam Owens and Adam’s wife, Dena Dietle Owens, and their children, Lucas and Olivia; by his brother, Edward Owens; and by his sister, Caroline Vann. He was preceded in death by his father, William Roy Owens, and his mother, Margaret Hart Owens. Beyond ranching, Jerry took deep pleasure in being present for his grandchildren as they grew. He loved attending their sporting events, from T-ball and soccer, when they were young, through their middle school and high school years of baseball, softball, basketball, volleyball and football. These steady acts of presence reflected how fully he invested himself in his family. Whether the event was small or significant, he valued being there to watch, support, and share in those moments. Jerry will be remembered as a man whose priorities were clear, for the life he built in ranching, for the knowledge and values he passed to the next generations and for his unwavering devotion to family. Jerry’s grandfather, father, and both of his sons have served in different capacities for the Red Bluff Bull and Gelding Sale. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in Jerry’s memory to: Red Bluff Bull Sale Youth Fund, 670 Antelope Blvd, Suite 3, Red Bluff, CA 96080. A memorial service was held on Sept. 13, at the Red Bluff Elks Lodge.

JIM COLEMAN James (Jim) Edward Coleman, retired Vice President & Executive of the Board at GALLO, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026. He was 90 years old. Jim was devoted to his family and to GALLO. Raised in Corvallis, Oregon, he met his beloved wife, Susann (Sue) Gallo, while attending Oregon State University and later completed his Bachelor of Business Administration at the University of Oregon. Married in 1957, Jim and Sue went on to have eight children together. Committed to continual learning, Jim embarked on a career with GALLO that spanned more than 60 years. He followed the path of his father-in-law, Julio Gallo, by learning the business from the ground up and sharing the founders’ fundamental goal of winning new friends for wine. Jim’s first role was selling wine on the streets of Portland, Oregon, and Stockton, California. He later moved to the company’s headquarters in Modesto to learn the intricacies of wine production. By tasting wine with Julio every day for 34 years, Jim became an expert in the winemaking side of the business. Together, Julio and Jim approved every blend for bottling. Jim dedicated himself to Julio’s vision of making high-quality wines accessible to consumers. Throughout his career, he helped strengthen GALLO’s position as the world’s largest winery while consistently raising standards for quality, efficiency, and value. “My Uncle Jim devoted more than 60 years to GALLO, helping shape our company through his commitment to family ownership and support of product innovation,” said Ernest J. Gallo, President and CEO. As a natural leader, Jim’s management responsibilities continued to grow over his decades-long career at GALLO. His positions included Executive Vice President of Production, Co-President, Co-Chairman, and Vice President & Executive of the Board. Most of Jim’s tenure was spent managing the

To share your family news, obituaries, weddings and birth announcements, please contact the CCA office at (916) 444-0845 or e-mail: magazine@calcattlemen.org.

full scope of the production process, ensuring that the right products were delivered at the right time, to the right people, at the right price. Jim and his team never lost focus on providing consumers with the very best wines, thriving on consistently raising standards to increase quality and appeal. Outside of GALLO, Jim served on a number of boards including: Oregon State University Foundation, Oregon State University College of Business Dean’s Council of Excellence, California State University Ag Advisory Board, California State University Fresno Viticulture and Enology Advisory Board, the Maddy Institute Board, and the Wine Institute board. Jim was also a longtime member of the Modesto Rotary. Until his passing, Jim lived in Modesto, where several of his children and grandchildren continue to carry on the family business. Jim was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Susann Gallo Coleman, his son Bradley Edward and is survived by his seven children, 28 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held on Sept. 10, in Oakdale. The family requests memorial donations be made to: Ag One Foundation: Bradley Edward Coleman Endowment, The Angus Foundation or the Oregon State University Foundation.

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SERVICES FOR ALL YOUR ON-THE-RANCH NEEDS

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“PERFORMANCE, GROWTH & CARCASS GENETICS”

VISIT US AT WWW.DONATIRANCH.COM!

916.712.3696 • 916.803.2685 jj@barrangus.com

46 California Cattleman October 2026

Thanks for your support at our 2026 bull sale! JOIN US AGAIN SEPT. 9, 2027!

BULLS, FEMALES, EMBRYOS AND SEMEN FOR SALE AT THE RANCH IN MONTAGUE

Lee Nobmann, owner Hunter Wheeler, manager (530) 520-8362 • hunter@dixievalley.com

LOOK FOR US AT LEADING SALES IN 2026!

You can take to the bank! PERFORMANCE-TESTED EFFICIENT, QUALITY ANGUS BULLS NOW AVAILABLE!

h Noah’s Angus Ranch

(775) 691-1838 • honeranch@frontier.com HONERANCH.COM

O’Connell ranch THANK YOU TO OUR BUYERS!

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU AGAIN NEXT YEAR!

old stage angus

Nathan, Melissa & Kate Noah (208) 257-3686 • (208) 550-0531

Registered and Commercial Genetics Semen and Embryo Sales | Meat Sales Myron Schotanus | (559) 804-4997 oldstageangus.com

O’CONNELL FAMILY

3590 Brown Rd, Colusa CA (530) 632-3902

O’NEAL RANCH

• Calving Ease with Growth •

— SINCE 1878—

Mark your calendars for our THANK YOU Plus TO OUR Performance Bull 2026 Sale BULL BUYERS! Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026

O’NEAL RANCH BULLS OFFER THE COMPLETE PACKAGE

GROWTH • PERFORMANCE ADAPTABILITY • CARCASS Gary & Betsy Cardoza

O’Neals, CA | (559) 999-9510

Hoffman Bomber 8743

VDAR PF Churchhill 2825

VDAR Mirror Image 6207

SIRE: Musgrave Aviator MGS: R B Tour Of Duty 177

Offering bulls at California’s top consignment sales! Call today about private treaty offerings!

O’Connell Aviator 7727

SIRE: VDAR Churchill 1063 MGS: VDAR Really Windy 4189

RED RIVER FARMS 13750 West 10th Avenue Blythe, CA 92225 Office: 760-922-2617 Bob Mullion: 760-861-8366 Michael Mullion: 760-464-3906

Simmental – SimAngus™ – Angus

SIRE: Casino Bomber N33 MGS: S A V Final Answer 0035 SIRE: W R A Mirror Image T10 MGS: BCC Bushwacker 41-93

Joe Sammis • (530) 397-3456 122 Angus Rd., Dorris, CA 96023

SPLIT CREEK ANGUS 2025 CAL POLY TOP CONSIGNOR

Offering top-performing bulls at California’s most premier consignment sales! Split Creek Hemispheres

J ER EM Y & C ATH Y S T R A N D 5 3 0 -2 0 0 -6 1 4 6 SPL IT C R EEKA N G U S . C O M

“Performance is our stock in trade” SANGER, CA|(928) 941-9419

STEPASIDEFARM.COM

October 2026 California Cattleman

THANK YOU TO OUR 2026 BUYERS AT OUR 52ND ANNUAL BULL SALE!

MCPHEE RED ANGUS "As good as the best, better than the rest!" Annual Production Sale Sept. 26, 2026 in Lodi

(530) 385-1570

E-mail................................tehamaranch@gmail.com

Call us today for information on private treaty bulls or females. 14298 N. Atkins Rd • Lodi, CA 95240 Rita 209-607-9719 and Royce 209-712-8116 website: www.mcpheeredangus.com

MORRELL RANCHES

HEREFORD

GENETICS

“THE BRAND YOU CAN COUNT ON” Call us about our upcoming consignments or private treaty cattle available off the ranch.

BARRY, CARRIE & BAILEY MORRELL Barry: (530) 682-5808 • Carrie: (530) 218-5507 Bailey (530) 519-5189 morrellranches@yahoo.com 5640 County Road 65 | Willows, CA

HEREFORD Top performance Hereford genetics —Horned and Polled—

Performance Plus Bull Sale President’s Day 2027 • Terrebonne, OR • 1 pm

THANK YOU TO OUR 2026 BUYERS! MARK YOUR CALENDARS TO JOIN US AGAIN SEPT. 6, 2027

Sale by the Sea Sept. 8, 2027 | Pismo Beach John Teixeira: (805) 448-3859 Allan Teixeira: (805) 310-3353 Tom Hill: (541) 990-5479

Chris Beck, Manager • 618-367-5397 Bob Coker • 916-539-1987 visit us online at: www.genoalivestock.com

SEEDSTOCK PRODUCER SINCE 1978 Registered Hereford Cattle, Angus Cattle & Quarter Horses Leading Angus & Ultrablack© Genetics Bulls and females available private treaty!

TUMBLEWEED RANCHES

Annual Sale First Monday in March

42500 Salmon Creek Rd Baker City, OR 97814

Greeley Hill, CA • La Grange, CA Stephen Dunckel • (209) 591-0630 www.tumbleweedranch.net twd@tumbleweedranch.net

FEMALE SALE: 10/10/2026 IN MODESTO

Ranch: (541) 523-4401 Bob Harrell, Jr.: (541) 523-4322

P.W. GILLIBRAND Cattle Co.

Horned and Polled Hereford Genetics

Private treaty bulls available or watch for our consignments at Cal Poly!

OFFICE@VINTAGEANGUSRANCH.COM WWW.VINTAGEANGUSRANCH.COM

48 California Cattleman October 2026

Dwight Joos Ranch Manager P.O. Box 1019 • Simi Valley, CA 93062 805-520-8731 x1115 • Mobile 805-428-9781 dwight.joos@pwgcoinc.com Simi Valley, CA

pwgillibrandcattle.com

To lean more about AHA, contact Western Regional Field Representative Emilee Holt at 208-965-3130 11500 N Ambassador Drive, Suite 410 | Kansas City, MO 64153 | (816) 842-3757 | aha@hereford.org

ANIMAL HEALTH

KNIPE

SPANISH RANCH Your Source for Brangus and Ultrablack Genetics in the West!

LAND COMPANY EST 1944

Reliable products you are looking for with the dependable service you need. Vaccines Mineral Medicines Supplements ...and more! Antonia Old • (209) 769-7663

antonia.old@animalhealthinternational.com

THE DOIRON FAMILY Daniel & Pamela Doiron 805-245-0434 Cell doiron@spanishranch.net www.spanishranch.net

THD ©

VALE OREGON HAY FARM PRICE REDUCED

Hay operation on 444± acres. Irrigated with 10 pivots (some gravity pressurized), hay and cattle barns, shop, wood shop, feed bunks, & ponds. Three homes. Equipment offered separately. $5,900,000. More purchase options available. Call for details.

(208) 345-3163 · knipeland.com

MULTI BREED

NUTRITION Premium Livestock Feeds

“PERFORMANCE THROUGH WWW.BARALEINC.COM ADVANCED (888) 258-3333NUTRITION” • Williams, CA Matt Zappetini 526-0106 • Mineral Mixes with(530) Ranch Delivery • mzappetini@baraleinc.com • Hi Mag - Fly Control - Rumensin - Custom Mixes • Performance Through • Complete Feeds and Finish Mixes • Advanced Nutrition

Purebred Angus & Red Angus Cattle EXTENSIVELY UTILIZING ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION AND EMBRYO TRANSFER

Dr. Kasey DeAtley 530-898-5112 Travis Heffner Livestock Technician 530-898-6026

Agriculture Foundation

www.baraleinc.com • (888) 258-3333

Contact Ryan Person at (559) 326-8354 or by e-mail at rperson@csufresno.edu

Williams, CA Matt Zappetini (530) 526-0106 mzappetini@baraleinc.com

Ranch Deliveries Available with our Truck and Forklift! We also offer custom formulations to meet your

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation We oﬀer blends that contain: (All Periodicals Publications Except Publications) MolassesRequester - Zinpro® Performance Minerals - Availa® 4 - Added Se

1. Publication Title

2. Publication Number

California Cattleman

3. Filing Date

8-3600 _

09/10/2026

4. Issue Frequency

5. Number of Issues Published Annually

6. Annual Subscription Price

Monthly with May and June combined

20 Contact Person

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication (Not printer) (Street, city, county, state, and ZIP+4 ®)

WANT TO SEE YOUR BUSINESS ADVERTISED HERE?

Telephone (Include area code)

(208) 996-4922

8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher (Not printer)

3841 North Freeway Blvd, Suite 130 Sacramento, CA 95834 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor (Do not leave blank) Publisher (Name and complete mailing address)

California Cattlemen's Association 3841 North Freeway Blvd, Suite 130, Sacramento, CA 95834 Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

Stevie Ipsen 4550 Elgin Rd, New Plymouth ID 83655 Managing Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

Stevie Ipsen 4550 Elgin Rd, New Plymouth ID 83655 10. Owner (Do not leave blank. If the publication is owned by a corporation, give the name and address of the corporation immediately followed by the names and addresses of all stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, give the names and addresses of the individual owners. If owned by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, give its name and address as well as those of each individual owner. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, give its name and address.) Full Name Complete Mailing Address

3841 North Freeway Blvd, Suite 130 Sacramento, CA 95834

California Cattlemen's Association 13. Publication Title

14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below

California Cattleman

09/01/2026

15. Extent and Nature of Circulation

KEEP YOUR BUSINESS LISTING IN FRONT OF YOUR DIRECT AUDIENCE YEAR ROUND. ONE-TIME ANNUAL PAYMENT. CHANGE YOUR AD ANYTIME.

Average No. Copies No. Copies of Single Each Issue During Issue Published Preceding 12 Months Nearest to Filing Date

a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run)

CONTACT MATT MACFARLANE (916) 803-3113 OR E-MAIL M3CATTLEMARKETING@GMAIL.COM

4575

4600

4367

4244

11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or None Other Securities. If none, check box (1) Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid 4367 4244 distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies) Full Name Complete Mailing Address b. Paid Circulation (By Mail and Outside the Mail)

Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid (2) distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies) (3)

Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS®

(4)

Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS (e.g., First-Class Mail®)

c. Total Paid Distribution [Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), and (4)]

12. Tax Status (For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at nonprofit rates) (Check one) d. Free or (1) Free or nonprofit Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies included on PSstatus Form for 3541 177 356 The purpose, function, and status of this organization and the exempt federal income tax purposes: Nominal Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months Rate (2) During Free or Nominal 12 Rate In-County Copiesmust Included on explanation PS Form 3541 Distribution Has Changed Preceding Months (Publisher submit of change with this statement) (By Mail PS Form PRIVACY NOTICE: See our privacy policy on www.usps.com. and3526, July 2014 [Page 1 of 4 (see instructions page 4)] PSN: 7530-01-000-9931 Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS Outside (3) (e.g., First-Class Mail) the Mail) (4)

Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means)

e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3) and (4))

177

356

f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e)

4544

4571

g. Copies not Distributed (See Instructions to Publishers #4 (page #3))

h. Total (Sum of 15f and g)

4575

4600

96.1

92.8

i. Percent Paid (15c divided by 15f times 100)

* If you are claiming electronic copies, go to line 16 on page 3. If you are not claiming electronic copies, skip to line 17 on page 3.

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (All Periodicals Publications Except Requester Publications)

16. Electronic Copy Circulation

RESERVE YOUR BUSINESS SPACE TODAY!

Stevie Ipsen

3841 North Freeway Blvd, Suite 130 Sacramento, CA 95834

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date

b. Total Paid Print Copies (Line 15c) + Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a)

4367

4244

c. Total Print Distribution (Line 15f) + Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a)

4544

4571

d. Percent Paid (Both Print & Electronic Copies) (16b divided by 16c Í 100)

96.1

92.8

a. Paid Electronic Copies

✔ I certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (electronic and print) are paid above a nominal price.

PS Form 3526, July 2014 (Page 2 of 4) 17. Publication of Statement of Ownership ✔ If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed

Publication not required.

10/1/26 in the ________________________ issue of this publication. 18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner

Date

09/10/2026 I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).

October 2026 California Cattleman

Advertisers’ Index

44 Farms..............................................................................................................33

Kessler Angus.................................................................................................. 47

Amador Angus Ranch...............................................................................46

Knipe Land Company................................................................................49

American Angus Association.................................................................35

Lambert Ranch.................................................................................................. 3

American Hereford Association..........................................................48

Leachman Cattle.............................................................................................13

Animal Health International..................................................................49

Lesikar Ranch................................................................................................... 41

Bar Ale Premium Livestock Feeds....................................................49

McPhee Red Angus.....................................................................................48

Bar KD Ranch..................................................................................................46 Bar R Angys.......................................................................................................46 Birch Creek Angus......................................................................................... 19 Buchanan Angus..........................................................................................46 Byrd Cattle Co..................................................................................................46 Cattlemen's Livestock Market................................................................. 9 Chico State College of Ag........................................................................49 Conlin Supply Co., Inc................................................................................. 26 Dal Porto Livestock......................................................................................46 Diamond Oak Cattle...................................................................................46 Dixie Valley Angus................................................................................. 46, 51 Dixie Valley Angus........................................................................................46 Donati Ranch...................................................................................................46 Endovac.................................................................................................................31 Freitas Rangeland Improvements.................................................... 45 Fresno State Ag Foundation.................................................................49 Genoa Livestock.............................................................................................48 Grand National Rodeo................................................................................ 18

Morrell Ranches.............................................................................................48 Noahs Angus Ranch................................................................................... 47 O'Connell Ranch............................................................................................ 47 O'Neal Ranch.................................................................................................... 47 Old Stage Angus............................................................................................ 47 P.W. Gillibrand Cattle Co..........................................................................48 Red River Farms............................................................................................. 47 Riverbend Ranch............................................................................................37 Sammis Ranch................................................................................................ 47 Sierra Ranches................................................................................................48 Sonoma Mountain Herefords...............................................................48 Spanish Ranch................................................................................................49 Stepaside Farm............................................................................................... 47 Tehama Angus Ranch...............................................................................48 Teixeira Cattle Co...........................................................................................48 Tulare County Stockyards........................................................................ 26 Tumbleweed Ranches...............................................................................48

Harrell Herefords...........................................................................................48

Turlock Livestock Auction Yard.............................................................. 5

HAVE Angus...................................................................................................... 47

Vintage Angus Ranch........................................................................ 48, 52

Henry Repeating Arms................................................................................11

Western Poly Pipe........................................................................................ 34

Hoffman Ranch.............................................................................................. 39

Western Stockman's Market..................................................................25

Hone Ranch...................................................................................................... 47

Western Video Market.................................................................................. 2

Kern Cattle..........................................................................................................27

WSR Insurance...............................................................................................44

50 California Cattleman October 2026

Thank you, Buyers!

TO ALL OUR SUPPORTERS AT OUR 2026 BULL SALE

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO GRIMMIUS CATTLE CO. FOR PURCHASING LOT 17 AND LOT 50. CONTACT GRIMMIUS TO PURCHASE SEMEN! Lot 17 SterLing congreSS 5203

Sire: crouch congreSS | MgS: poSS deadwood

Lot 50 SterLing roI 5184

CED

-0.1

0.4

168

163 -0.14

0.75

MILK

MarB

1.61

MarB

1.30

0.64

0.98

101

110

119

228

215

392

358

Sire: SterLing roI | MgS: Jindra accLaiM

JoIn uS LIVe or onLIne at the LouISVILLe SLugger MuSeuM In LouISVILLe, KY

November 16

For a SpecIaL onLIne anguS genetIcS SaLe eVent!

2 p.m. eastern time

dixievalley.com

lee NobmaNN (707) 206-4115 • JasoN GaGNoN (559) 723-6362

October 2026 California Cattleman

THE BULL SALE

VINTAGE ANGUS WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR 2026 BULL BUYERS BW 2.7 WW 89 YW 163 MILK 24 MARB 1.82 RE 1.56 CW 95.00 $M 71 $W 83 $C 447 BW 2.8 WW 94 YW 162 MILK 29 MARB 1.40 RE 1.20 CW 85.00 $M 93 $W 107 $C 393 BW 1.2 WW 53 YW 152 MILK 16 MARB 165 RE 0.98 CW 70.00 $M 58 $W 68 $C 361

V A R HALLELUJAH 5177

A special thank you to Grimmius Cattle Co., Hanford, CA for their selection of VAR Hallelujah 5177, the $290,000 high-selling bull, VAR Delivered 5293, the $210,000 second top-selling bull and VAR Faithful 5084, the $100,000 third top-selling spring bull of the 2026 Vintage Angus Ranch Bull Sale. FOR SEMEN, CONTACT: GRIMMIUS CATTLE CO. (806) 676-5264

V A R DELIVERED 5293

A VERY SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR COMMERICIAL CATTLEMEN FOR THEIR CONTINUED TRUST AND SUPPORT!

DOUG WORTHINGTON, MANAGER

V A R FAITHFUL 5084

MIKE HALL, BULL SERVICES (805) 748-4717 2702 SCENIC BEND, MODESTO, CA 95355 (209) 521-0537 WWW.VINTAGEANGUSRANCH.COM OFFICE@VINTAGEANGUSRANCH.COM