About the Academy
Utah State University Extension has joined with Intermountain Farmers Association to establish an ongoing ranch management seminar series focused on the Intermountain West. The series will provide high-quality educational opportunities for ranchers and allied industry professionals.
The Western Ranch Management Academy will hold four seminars each year. These seminars will each cover topics critical to the long-term success of ranching in the Intermountain West. Experts on specific topics will present material designed to provide the attendees with a working knowledge of the subject in an interactive setting. Ranchers will have the opportunity to network with subject-matter experts and other producers looking to improve their operations.
Ranchers and allied industry professionals will benefit from this deep dive into all facets of successful ranch management. To accommodate an intimate learning environment, class sizes will be limited.
Leadership Development Program
Invest in your future in ranch and natural resource management.
With generous support from the Mike and Melissa Schultz Family Foundation, and additional support from Partners for Fish and Wildlife, WRMA is offering 10 Professional Development Awards per seminar to early-career livestock producers and ranch or natural resource managers.
Each award includes:
- Full tuition to one WRMA quarterly seminar
- Up to $500 in travel reimbursement
- Access to nationally recognized experts
- Practical, science-based education you can apply to your operation, organization, or community
Who should apply?
Early-career producers and professionals who are committed to ranch and resource management, demonstrate leadership potential, and are ready to put what they learn into practice.
Upcoming Seminars
 Global Markets to the Ranch Gate: Forces Shaping Livestock Markets in the FutureChampions Club, Maverik Stadium, USU
|
 Wildlife and Ranching in the WestCache County Events Center, Logan, UT |
 Strategic Finance in RanchingChampions Club, Maverik Stadium, USU |
 Cattle Breeding and Genetic TechnologyChampions Club, Maverik Stadium, USU |
 Cattle MarketingChampions Club, Maverik Stadium, USU |
|
Future Seminar Topics
Topics in 2026 will include Real Estate Law, Western Range and Pasture Management, Managing the Cow/Calf Business, Managing Ranch Employees, and Technology Advancements at the Ranch.
Founded in 1923, Intermountain Farmers Association (IFA) has grown into a leading agricultural cooperative serving the Intermountain West. With over a century of experience, IFA is dedicated to supporting ranchers, farmers, and rural communities by providing quality products, expert knowledge, and essential services.
As a member-owned cooperative, IFA operates with the mission to manufacture and distribute agricultural products and services that are reasonably priced and professionally managed. Their commitment extends to enhancing the economic well-being and quality of life for family farmers and ranchers, which in turn strengthens local communities.
As a dedicated advocate for agriculture in the Intermountain West, IFA proudly partners with Utah State University Extension in supporting the Western Ranch Management Academy—reflecting their shared commitment to advancing ranching knowledge and practices across the region.
Learn more about IFA and their contributions to agriculture at ifa.coop.
Directors
Ryan Larsen
Associate Professor, Agribusiness, Farm Management, Risk Analysis
Bryce Roholt
Manager, Feed & Animal Health Division – Intermountain Farmers Association (IFA)
David Secrist
Professor of Professional Practice Beef Cattle Extension Specialist
Program Sponsors
This material is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2024-70027-42472