Pennoyer selected for FCPW program

The pressure is on for this fourth generation rancher who has a passion for cattle. Hot Springs County High School student, Jessie Pennoyer, is one of seven youth in Wyoming selected to be part of the third class of the Future Cattle Producers of Wyoming (FCPW).

Commitment, passion and ability to feed and raise the animal in a proper setting are just a few of the things that Scott Keith and his committee look for when selecting the future of Wyoming's cattle industry. Established in 2013, the Future Cattle Producers of Wyoming is a program coordinated by Wyoming Livestock Genetics Association to help develop leadership and communication skills with high school aged youth interested in livestock production careers. Their goal is educating Wyoming youth in cattle production and providing a real life opportunity for starting their own herd.

Keith modeled this program after a few other cattle programs including the N.I.L.E. Merit Heifer Program and the Supreme Cow Contest. What sets this program apart from those and other programs is that it is a two year commitment, the donors are hand picked to match youth and the questions they are asked and the records they need to keep will truly prepare them for a future in the cattle industry. "It isn't just about receiving a donated heifer. It's about the relationship with their donors and the other participants, range cow production and education about the cattle industry in general," said Keith.

Pennoyer received a registered Hereford heifer from Durbin Creek Ranch and the Agar Family. Wyatt Agar will be Pennoyer's mentor for the next two years of this project. The Agar family feels that participating in this program is an investment in the future of the cattle industry. It is a way for the kids to learn about the industry and hopefully continue in the business after their project is over. The Agars believe in the project so much this is their third year to donate a heifer to the FCPW. They would also encourage other producers to get involved as these kids are the future of the cattle business.

Pennoyer filled out an application this past spring and wrote an essay describing why she wanted to be chosen to receive a donated heifer, what her plans would be with that heifer during the year, plans to work with her donor and what her long term plans in the cattle or livestock industry are. The FCPW committee goes through the applications and selects a few candidates for the next step in the process. The youth then go through an extensive interview process prior to selection to be in the program. The donor is then selected to fit the youth, so a bond can develop between them.

Pennoyer is interested in the Hereford breed because of their temperament, efficiency, calving ease and because her grandfather, Stanley Pennoyer, used to run Herefords when he first started out with his own herd. As to why she wanted to participate in the program, "It's more about the production end of the cattle industry, not just a one year fair show project. It's about raising a heifer and getting the most out of her from a production standpoint. To me, it's not about the awards you win at fair but a long term learning experience", said Pennoyer. "I want to expand my cattle herd with a new breed, make connections with other area ranchers and find out why and how they run their operations."

Thermopolis FFA Advisor Britton Van Heule first encouraged Pennoyer to apply to the program in 2013. She was selected for an interview but was not chosen as a finalist. It wasn't until this year that she decided to try again. "This is an amazing opportunity for an outstanding young lady," said Van Heule. "It provides an opportunity for her to be able to get a head start on her personal cattle herd. The Agar family is a cornerstone for the program and have donated a heifer each year. I can't wait to see what this opportunity does for Jessie."

Future Cattle Producers of Wyoming is a two year program. The first year they go through a program of growing, breeding, and keeping records on the heifer. They will keep a record book with all expenses, decisions they made during the year and why they chose the breeding bull they did based off of EPD's and other information that affects their project. In the second year, complete a record book again. They will be responsible for bringing a video or virtual presentation of their cow-calf pair to the state fair. The ultimate award will be a production efficiency calculation. Profitability will also be a large factor in their scores.

If you are interested in applying, donating or for more information regarding the Future Cattle Producers of Wyoming, contact Scott Keith, Livestock Genetics Program Manager with the Wyoming Business Council Agribusiness Division (307) 259-3274 or visit their website at http://www.wylga.com/futurecattleproducers.