Eighteen CPW employees from the Northwest Region were invited to spend the day on Stanko Ranch with Jo Stanko, her family and several other presenters. Members of the Stanko family — Jim, Pat, and Jan — explained the history of their cattle and hay operation, provided a hands-on-demonstration of hay production equipment, and spoke about their family’s working relationship with CPW.
CDA range rider and expert sheep dog handler, Marianne Sasak, spoke about sheep production and conflict avoidance from a rancher’s perspective. She provided a demonstration of her dogs working with sheep.
John Fields, a sheep rancher from Montrose and president of the Colorado Woolgrowers Association Board of Directors, discussed the challenges the sheep industry faces and answered pertaining questions.
Todd Hagenbuch, Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Specialist and Director for Colorado State University, spoke on the importance of developing and maintaining relationships within the agricultural community.
Jackie Brown with the Colorado Water Conservation Board discussed Colorado Water Law and how it affects agriculture.
“I think this course did an excellent job. It definitely humanizes producers and helps give a reference from where people are coming from,” said Rebekah Ryan, District Wildlife Manager for Area 8. “As demonstrated by the Stankos, it is not just a ‘job’ but a family heritage and a way of life.”