Program Overview

Introduction to the Western Ranch Management Academy

The Western Ranch Management Academy is a seminar series established by USU Extension in partnership with the Intermountain Farmers Association. The academy focuses on providing high-quality learning opportunities for full-time ranchers and allied industry professionals.

Program Description

The program aims to equip ranchers with the tools and knowledge necessary to manage their lands effectively, balancing ranch productivity with wildlife preservation. The academy covers various topics, including wildlife management, grazing improvement projects, and funding opportunities for rural development.

Key Topics and Speakers

• Wildlife management as an integral part of ranching operations
• Strategies for managing wildlife while maintaining ranch productivity
• The importance of recording animal usage on ranch lands
• Integrating conservation into ranch management
• Grazing and fire as original land management tools
• Balancing grazing and rest periods for plant vigor and cover

Faculty and Experts

• David Secrist, USU Extension Specialist and Academy Chair
• Eric Thacker, Rangeland Specialist
• Rick Danvir, Wildlife Biologist
• Jay Tanner, Experienced Rancher
• Dave Dahlgren, Rangeland and Wildlife Extension Specialist

Future Events and Topics

• Cattle marketing options for western ranchers
• Managing the cow-calf business
• Legal concerns in ranching
• Pasture management
• Other topics relevant to the long-term success of ranching in the Intermountain West

Program Objective

The objective of the Western Ranch Management Academy is to provide ranchers with a broad suite of management practices that support, manage, and protect wildlife species as well as cattle, ultimately contributing to the long-term profitability and sustainability of ranching operations.