Ropers got their goat at Big Horn County Farm Bureau event in Basin

Saturday, Jan. 4, was a day full of Wyoming-style family fun for those who attended the goat roping event put on by the Big Horn County Farm Bureau Federation at the fairgrounds in Basin. 

Consistent rounds of open roping throughout the day provided opportunity to show off roping skills and the excitement of winning cash prizes. Header/heeler teams were made up of grandparents, parents and friends, including children age 7 and up, joining together for friendly competition. There were some very talented young ropers outshining their elders, all in fun. 

For the under age 7 crowd, there was a chance to also compete for best time and win cash prizes by pulling a ribbon off the tail of a goat. Future ropers in the making, they made impressive attempts at grabbing the ribbons and provided the most laughs for the spectators. Children always win the day.

Volunteers who made this happen are Farm Bureau members of this grassroots organization that advocates for farmers and ranchers. The Farm Bureau is most grateful to have had several volunteers representing the FFA teams at Greybull, Burlington, Riverside and Rocky Mountain High Schools. These young people were indispensable throughout the day ready to chip in where needed to help the event run smoothly. The BHC Farm Bureau is grateful for the mutually beneficial relationship they have fostered with the county FFA teams. 

The Big Horn County Fair staff, managed by Catherine Foss, was very accommodating and helpful with use of the indoor arena. 

The BHC Farm Bureau extends huge thanks to the various sponsors who contributed to the success of the event. Double Dollar Cattle Co. furnished the livestock. Ten Sleep Brewing Company donated the beer, the Tipsy Cow Restaurant and Bar sponsored the bartender and Get Loaded BBQ provided barbecue beef as well as goat. Raffle prizes were donated by Shipton’s BIG R, John Deere, Big Horn Co-op, Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply and Dr. Michael and Monica Hill. Other valuable contributions were provided by Stephanie Petersen of Cowley Bookkeeping and Professional Services, KPOW 1260 AM, 103.3 FM The Range, White Ink Printing and Shipping, Jess McCartney of Redd Summit Advisors, Lorilyn Beck of Globe Life and Melissa Cook at the BHC University of Wyoming Extension, Basin. 

Proceeds from the event will support the BHC Farm Bureau scholarship program for student education in agriculture-related curriculums. 

Those interested in becoming a member or volunteer with the Big Horn County Farm Bureau may contact Tim Beck at 307-272-5600 or doubledollarcc@gmail.com. For information about Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation, see contacts by county at WYFB.ORG.