The Wyoming Department of Agriculture (WDA) during the recent Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo presented Excellence in Agriculture awards to a University of Wyoming professor in animal science and an extension range specialist.
Professor Doug Hixon in the Department of Animal Science received the Pacesetter Award, and Extension Range Specialist Rachel Mealor in the Department of Renewable Resources received the Friend of Agriculture Award. Both are in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
WDA Director Jason Fearneyhough said Hixon, head of the Department of Animal Science, received the Pacesetter Award for his innovative thinking, progressive management and cooperation between users of public lands.
"Our staff members would like to recognize Doug for going above and beyond these standards through his extended career at UW and all of his efforts to help the cattle industry," said Fearneyhough. "As one of the most respected cattle minds in the country, he has represented UW and Wyoming throughout North and South America. His work has helped Wyoming develop markets in Argentina and Brazil as well as the rest of the world. He is a true friend and confidant to producers all over the state."
Jessica Crowder from the WDA's Natural Resources and Policy section presented Mealor the Friend of Agriculture Award. She said Mealor was recognized for her work on several projects that demonstrate her expertise and dedication to Wyoming producers and land managers and her ability to work well with agricultural producers and natural resource professionals.
"She has been an asset to the WDA through her work on the Rangeland Health Assessment Program development committee and her strong support of the program, the pilot projects and role as the leader in UW's active involvement with the program," said Crowder.
"She tirelessly promotes agriculture, teaches others about range management and is always willing to help the WDA with special projects," she continued. "Along with this, she played an instrumental role in updating the Coordinated Resource Management (CRM) workbook to make it a valuable resource for CRM groups through her contributions and insights as well as her work on the committees throughout the process."
