Bringing the University to you

January 12-16, 2026

The University of Nevada, Reno will host the annual Cattlemen’s Update in person and virtually in 2026, Jan. 12 – 16. For more than 40 years, the University has held several sessions across Nevada in January to provide ranchers with current research-based information about issues that may affect the efficiency, productivity, profitability and sustainability of their businesses and Nevada’s cattle industry.

Cost of the workshop is $20 per Ranch

For additional information, contact:
Kaley Chapin at kaleys@unr.edu
Jamie Lee (755) 426-8299 or jamielee1@unr.edu

hand drawing of cowboys on the range

Webinar Agenda

2026 Fire Outlook & Rancher Liaison Program: Insights for Nevada Ranchers 
Overview of the upcoming fire outlook and a focused highlight on the rancher liaison program, offering timely insights and practical strategies for Nevada’s ranching communities.

Vet Animal Health: Discussions of Current Animal Health Issues in Nevada and the West 

  • Randy Wallstrum, DVM,  Gardnerville, NV   
  • Sarah Hummel, DVM, Winnemucca, NV
  • Lyle Whitaker, DVM, Fallon, NV

USDA Reorganization Overview 

State Meat Inspection Program
Shayda Sanjideh, Meat & Poultry Inspection Project Manager, Nevada Department of Agriculture 

In Person Agenda

Nevada Animal Health – Regulatory Update & New World Screw Worm Update
Peter Rolfe, DVM, State Veterinarian, Nevada Department of Agriculture 

Cattlemen’s Update Keynote Speaker - People skills will drive future grazing enterprises in a computerized world
Tipton D. Hudson, Professor, Rangeland & Livestock Management, Washington State University Extension and Create of the Art of the Range Podcast and Stocksmart App

Grazing is being recognized again as a key ecological tool, with ruminants playing an essential role in soil and landscape health. Ranchers who use livestock strategically can access new lands, provide ecosystem services, and strengthen their standing in land-use decisions. This session will highlight how to guide grazing for conservation benefit, build strong community relationships, and use technology to support—not replace—human expertise.

Building Biosecurity Plans: Resources for Nevada Livestock Producers
Tracy Shane, State Livestock Extension Specialist, Agriculture, Veterinary and Rangeland Sciences

Genetics, Reproduction & Heifer Retention - Overview of using EPDs and DNA tools for herd improvement, synchronization and AI cost. 
Luis Schütz, assistant professor, College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources, University of Nevada, Reno

Nevada Cattle Market Financial Outlook: Opportunities, Risk and Evaluating Heifer Retention Decisions
Shannon Neibergs, Western Extension Risk Management Center, Washington State University

Special Sessions in Person Agenda

Local Insights and Approaches to Wildfire Resilience: 2026 Fire Outlook & Rancher Liaison Program
These sessions will bring together ranchers, fire personnel, and agency representatives to discuss collaborative approaches for pre-fire preparedness, fire response, and post-fire recovery. Participants will learn about the rancher liaison program, wildfire monitoring technologies, and practical tools for strengthening partnerships and resilience in Nevada’s ranching communities, while also gaining insights into the current fire outlook and anticipated wildfire risks for the coming year.

A 30-minute networking session will follow, allowing ranchers to connect with agencies and event sponsors.

Youth for the Quality Care of Animals (YQCA)
Youth for the Quality Care of Animals (YQCA) is a national, multi-species quality-assurance program for youth ages 8–21.  The training will be face-to-face for about 60 minutes and cover animal well-being, food safety, and character development. Additionally, there will be a hands-on activity to help enforce important animal husbandry concepts. This training will be provided at no cost to participants; however, youth attending need to contact Lindsay Chichester (lchichester@unr.edu) to ensure there is an accurate supply count.

Locations Include:
Venue Location Day Time Additional Activies
Virtual Webinar via Zoom Registration Required, link coming soon. Monday, January 12, 2026 9:30 a.m. N/A
Fallon Convention Center 100 Campus Way, Fallon, NV Tuesday, January 13, 2026 5:30 p.m. Dinner
      3:30 p.m.  Youth YQCA and Fire Panel 
Ely Convention Center 150 W. 6th Street, Ely, NV Wednesday, January 14, 2026 5:30 p.m. Dinner
      3:30 p.m. Youth YQCA and Fire Panel 
Great Basin College 1500 College Parkway, Elko, NV 89801 Thursday, January 15, 2026 12:30 p.m. in the GBC Theater Dinner 
      10:30 a.m. Youth YQCA and Fire Panel 
Extension Humboldt County Office 1085 Fairgrounds Road, Winnemucca, NV 89445 Friday, January 16, 2026 11 a.m. Lunch
      9 a.m. Youth YQCA and Fire Panel 
The times given for the in-person sessions are registration times; the program begins 30 minutes later.
 

 

Interested in sponsoring the program?

This annual event is a cornerstone of Nevada's agricultural community, bringing together cattle producers, stakeholders and University and industry experts for a week of knowledge-sharing and networking.

Sponsorship of Cattlemen's Update offers you unparalleled access to a targeted audience that values quality, innovation and sustainability. By aligning your brand with this respected event, you'll not only enhance your visibility but also position yourself as a key player in the future of the cattle industry. Your sponsorship will demonstrate your commitment to supporting the hardworking individuals who are the backbone of Nevada's agricultural economy. More than 550 producers joined us last year, with local media helping to share the information even further. We’re looking forward to an even bigger impact in 2026!

As a sponsor, your business will be recognized throughout the event:

  • On our event webpage.
  • Through visibility in presentations during both online and in-person sessions.
  • With recognition in every community we visit across Nevada.

Enclosed you’ll find the sponsorship opportunities for this year. We would be honored to have your partnership in bringing timely, practical and science-based information to the people who keep Nevada’s cattle industry strong.

Join us in making this year's Nevada Cattlemen's Update a success, and let's work together to strengthen the bonds within our agricultural community.

Fill out the Sponsorship Form
 

 

 

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