Breaking Barriers: Women’s Ranch Bronc Riding, NY Pheasant Stocking Threat, and Colorado Wolf Fund Debate

Women break barriers in ranch bronc riding, New York’s pheasant stocking program in jeopardy and could affect hunters,& Colorado ranchers seek $582,000 for damages due to wolves. Join radio hosts Rebecca Wanner aka 'BEC' and Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt (Tigger & BEC) with The Bend Radio Show & Podcast, your news outlet for the latest in Outdoors & Western Lifestyle News!

Season 5, Episode 219

Trailblazers in Rodeo, Hunting Challenges in New York, and Colorado's Controversial Wolf Debate & Compensation Fund Breaking Barriers: The Rise of Women in Ranch Bronc Riding

The Women's Ranch Bronc Championships (WRBC), established in 2016 by the McElroy family, began as a platform for young female athletes eager to compete in the traditionally male-dominated rodeo sport of ranch bronc riding. With a mission to empower women of all ages and backgrounds to pursue their dreams in the arena, the WRBC has grown into a renowned competition circuit known as The Trail to Cheyenne Tour. This international platform continues to break barriers, showcasing the grit and talent of women ranch bronc riders across the globe.

These women are excellent ambassadors for the western lifestyle and are a MUST SEE if ever given the opportunity! For two years in a row, Tigger & BEC (PRCA Announcer & Music Director) have had the pleasure of working the Leather & Lace New Year's Eve Party: Bull Riding, Women's Bronc Riding, and Bull Fighting in Watford City, North Dakota. The WRBC Women's Ranch Bronc Riding has become a much anticipated event during the performance. Congratulations to all of these women on paving the way for others!

Reference: https://www.womensranchbronc.com/

New York’s Pheasant Stocking Program Faces Threat—What It Means for Bird Hunters

According to the New York Times and Outdoor Life; New York’s pheasant stocking program, which provides hunting opportunities by releasing pen-raised birds, is under threat by a proposed bill from Assembly member Linda B. Rosenthal. The program aims to give hunters the chance to chase pheasants, as wild bird populations have drastically declined due to habitat loss. Despite the argument that releasing these birds is "state-sponsored cruelty," the program is essential for maintaining hunting activities in the state. Without it, pheasant hunting in New York could cease to exist.

Though critics argue that hunting pen-raised birds is too easy, the program provides a crucial starting point for new hunters and young people. It also serves as a gateway to fostering future wildlife advocates. However, opponents, including animal welfare groups, push for an end to the practice, claiming it’s not in line with ethical hunting standards.

The state’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) states that the program is necessary for creating hunting opportunities, especially for beginners. If the bill passes, it could significantly reduce hunting participation in New York, affecting conservation efforts and funding for habitat restoration. If other states follow suit, it would be a setback for bird hunters nationwide.

Colorado Wolf Debate: Ranchers’ $582K in Damages

According to Outdoor Life; Ranchers in Grand County, Colorado, are facing severe financial losses due to ongoing attacks by gray wolves, and they are now asking Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) for $582,000 in compensation. This request, submitted at the end of December, is well beyond the state’s $350,000 Wolf Depredation Compensation Fund, which is i