Carbon County Feeds The World
Agriculture is one of the top three industries in the Cowboy State, with cash receipts near $2.0 billion annually. The highest valued commodities in Carbon County are cattle and calves, sheep and lambs and hay.
Cattle and Calves
Beef cattle production is the biggest part of Wyoming’s agriculture industry. Wyoming’s cattle industry dates back to the middle 1800's when settlers first began crossing and settling the West. For years, Wyoming range cattle have commanded top market value.
The January 1, 2023 inventory of all cattle and calves in Wyoming totaled 1.24 million head. In 2022, Carbon County had the third largest inventory in Wyoming with 95,021 head, producing $69.4 million in sales.
Sheep and Lambs
The high plains and mountain meadows of Wyoming are well-known for producing some of the finest sheep and wool in the world. Wyoming ranks second in the U.S. in wool production and lamb crop. Wyoming wool is some of the finest and most desirable produced in the U.S. fetching some of the highest prices each year.
The January 1, 2022 inventory of all sheep and lambs in Wyoming totaled 335,000 head. Carbon County ranks 13th in the state, producing $1.543 million in sales.
Bison
Bison are a high-value livestock species that is growing in number and popularity across the United States.
According to the 2017 USDA census, Wyoming's inventory total is 8,715 head, generating $8.338 million in sales.
The Iron Creek Bison Company calls Carbon County home. This family-operated ranch offers the highest quality, premium bison in the region.
Hay
Wyoming hay is known for it's high quality, high protein, leafiness, and excellent feed value. It is shipped throughout the United States and the world for horse and dairy feed.
Wyoming's hay production for the 2022 growing season was estimated at 2.55 million tons. In October 2022, Wyoming hay prices ranged from $250 to $325 per ton, influenced by factors such as increased production costs and regional demand. It is roughly estimated that Carbon County produces around 231,927 tons of hay.
Wide Open Space
Open space is highly valued in Wyoming. According to the 2017 USDA census, Carbon County has 649 agriculture producers. Many cover large areas, contributing to scenic landscapes, wildlife habitat and recreational benefits.
The Public Lands Council (PLC) advocates for western ranchers who preserve our nation’s natural resources while providing vital food and fiber to the nation and the world.
The Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust works with ranch owners to provide voluntary, private-sector options for agricultural land conservation.
Industry Advocates
The Wyoming Stock Growers Association advocates on issues affecting the cattle industry, Wyoming agriculture and rural community living.
Wyoming Cattlewomen is a group of dedicated individuals who believe that the livestock industry is of basic importance to world existence. Their objective is to develop educational awareness about BEEF and to promote a better understanding of the various roles the beef industry plays in the environment and the national economy.
The Wyoming Beef Council was established in 1971 to serve as the promotion, research and education arm of the Wyoming beef industry.
More Industries
Carbon County's industries are ever-expanding and improving lives across the world.
