Safe and Happy Season’s Greetings [Cattleman, The]

We focus on safety this month, and an underlying theme in each feature article is the value of preparation, planning and training to safety.

Robert Fears approached us in early 2012 with the idea on youth hunter safety. Programs for young hunters are so valuable in helping future voters gain an appreciation of the stewardship work done by private landowners. Students and parents trained in firearm safety will grow precious memories in the hunting blinds and avoid tragic mistakes.

The idea for our article on storage tank safety came from Burton Barnes Jr., a Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) member who is also with Wortham Insurance and Risk Management, San Antonio. Burton told me about a ranch worker who was cleaning out a grain bin. In the enclosed space, the oxygen was depleted and the worker passed out. A fellow worker went to rescue him only to be overcome, also. Sadly, both men were lost.

Gary DiGiuseppe took on the project and presents information to help you plan for safety when working in confined spaces.

Our third safety article deals with safe dams. So many dams in rural areas were built to protect agricultural land. These days, houses have been built on some of that land and the old dams were never intended to protect households. A careful look at the structure, operation and maintenance of earthen dams might be in order for some landowners.

I'd like to thank those who have been such great help in 2012: Writers and photographers have been generous with their talent. Experts and members have been gracious to provide information for articles. Business owners have been loyal advertisers, bringing their goods and services to our readers. The staff in the Communications Services department has my gratitude for getting one publication done just in time to start the next - both on paper and in electronic form.

Special thanks go to the TSCRA special rangers. About this time last year they agreed to help with the Rancher's Management Guide column, which appears on page 8. Just about every month, I've pestered them for information and to review facts. This month, they provide their personal advice on staying safe and well this holiday season.

Best wishes to our members, readers and friends for a safe and happy holiday season, in whatever manner you celebrate. At my house, we say Merry Christmas!

By Ellen H. Brisendine

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