View San Carlos Cattle Association September 2026 Newsletter flipbook.
1 SEPTEMBER 2026 Volume 1 San Carlos Cattle Association: Newsletter
2 San Carlos Cattle Association: Strengthening Our Livestock Industry and Caring for Our Rangelands Welcome to the San Carlos Cattle Association Newsletter for September 2026! The San Carlos Cattle Association is committed to supporting the growth and sustainability of livestock and cattle operations within the San Carlos Apache community. Through collaboration and responsible land stewardship, the Association works to strengthen ranching opportunities, improve cattle production, and support the future of our local livestock industry. Our work extends beyond cattle operations, we recognize the importance of rangeland improvement, drought mitigation, and sustainable grazing practices in maintaining healthy pastures and protecting the natural resources that support our livestock and wildlife. By encouraging improved range management, water resource development, and proactive drought preparedness, we can help our Associations build more resilient operations. Through training opportunities, collaboration with agricultural professionals, and hands-on initiatives, we aim to promote healthier herds, stronger ranching practices, and increased economic opportunities for our community. As we move forward, the San Carlos Cattle Association remains dedicated to preserving our ranching traditions while embracing opportunities for improvement and growth. Together, we can strengthen our cattle industry, care for our rangelands, and support a sustainable future for the San Carlos Apache community. Best Regards, Steve Titla All Board of Directors President
3 Table of Contents 1. Construction Builds Supporting Point of Pines and Ash Creek Livestock Associations . . . . . . . . . . . 4 2. Solar-Panel Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 3. Fencing Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 4. Drought Mitigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 5. Superior Livestock Association Video Sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 6. Election . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 7. Sponsorship & Donation Request . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4 Construction Builds Supporting Point of Pines and Ash Creek Livestock Associations The San Carlos Cattle Association is committed to strengthening local livestock operations through improvements that support our hardworking Cowboys and the communities they serve. As part of this commitment, construction and remodeling projects are underway for the Point of Pines Livestock Association and Ash Creek Livestock Association cabins, focusing on improving housing for our Cowboys. These improvements include interior and exterior renovations, creating more comfortable and functional living spaces. The cabin upgrades also include new kitchen facilities to support the daily needs of the Cowboys, along with solar-panel lighting systems that provide an energy-efficient lighting solution. These construction projects represent an investment in the people who help maintain and operate our livestock programs by improving housing facilities and supporting essential infrastructure.
5 Solar-Panel Lighting As part of the cabin improvements for the Point of Pines and Ash Creek Livestock Associations, solar- panel lighting systems are being installed to provide dependable lighting for the cabins and water accessibility for livestock through windmill installations. The solar panels work by capturing sunlight during the day and converting it into electricity. The electricity is directed through a charge controller and stored in batteries for use after sunset. When lighting is needed, the stored energy powers the cabin's energy-efficient light fixtures, providing illumination throughout the evening and nighttime hours. For the windmill, the solar panels capture sunlight throughout the day, storing electricity within the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and release water as needed from the well systems. This provides an effective source of lighting for remote livestock facilities where traditional electrical service may not be readily available. The use of solar power also reduces the need for conventional electrical infrastructure and takes advantage of the abundant sunlight available in the area. The installation of solar-panel lighting is an important improvement to the cabins, providing local Cowboys with reliable lighting for cooking, working, reading, and safely moving around the facilities after dark. It also provides valuable drinking water to our cattle and assists in mitigating drought concerns. Renewable energy is a practical investment that can help reduce ongoing operating needs while providing a dependable power source for the livestock operations.
6 By incorporating solar energy into the cabin improvements and drinking wells, the project demonstrates a commitment to modernizing livestock facilities while making practical use of renewable resources available on the range. Fencing Projects The Point of Pines Livestock Association is committed to maintaining a safe, secure, and functional Headquarters that supports the organization’s livestock operations. As part of this commitment, the Association proposes the installation and improvement of welded, painted fencing at its Headquarters facility. The fencing project provides a durable and secure enclosure for livestock while helping protect the property, equipment, facilities, and visitors. Proper livestock fencing is essential to maintaining effective animal control, reducing the potential for livestock to escape, and creating a safer environment for members, employees, livestock handlers, and the public. The fencing project is professionally welded and painted to provide strength, longevity, and resistance to the elements. In addition to its functional purpose, careful attention is given to the appearance and design of the fencing so that it enhances the overall appearance of the Headquarters property. The finished project provides a clean, well-maintained, and professional appearance that reflects the Association’s commitment to responsible livestock management and stewardship.
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8 Drought Mitigation Increasing periods of drought and limited water availability present significant challenges to livestock producers, making dependable water infrastructure essential to the health, productivity, and welfare of livestock. To address these challenges, all Associations have proposed a comprehensive drought mitigation and water infrastructure improvement project focused on increasing the availability, reliability, and efficiency of livestock water systems throughout its operations. The project will include the installation of strategically located water storage troughs to provide additional water capacity and improve the Association’s ability to maintain reliable livestock water supplies during periods of drought and reduced water availability. Additional storage will provide greater flexibility in managing water resources and help ensure that livestock have consistent access to adequate water when natural sources and existing infrastructure are under stress. The Association also proposes improvements to existing solar-powered livestock water pumping systems. Upgrades to solar pumps and associated water infrastructure will improve the reliability and efficiency of pumping water to storage tanks and livestock watering locations. These improvements will reduce interruptions in water delivery, improve the utilization of available water sources, and provide a more dependable system that can operate in remote areas where conventional power sources may not be readily available. Additional water system improvements will include necessary repairs, upgrades, pipelines, troughs, fittings, and related infrastructure needed to effectively distribute water to livestock. Together, these improvements will create a more integrated and resilient livestock watering system capable of supporting livestock during extended periods of drought and challenging conditions. The proposed project will provide important benefits to both livestock and the natural resources managed by the Association. Reliable water availability can help maintain appropriate livestock distribution, reduce pressure on limited water sources, and improve the Association’s ability to manage grazing resources during drought conditions. Improved water infrastructure will also help the Associations respond more effectively to changing environmental conditions while maintaining responsible stewardship of the land.
9 Superior Livestock Association Video Sale The Point of Pines Livestock Association and Ash Creek Association recently participated in the Superior Livestock Video Auction, with the assistance and coordination of Justina Slim and Dine’ College. This opportunity provided both ranches with a chance to market their cattle through a nationally recognized livestock auction, reaching a broader network of buyers and expanding their access to competitive livestock markets. The video auction was a success, with competitive pricing and strong interest in the cattle offered for sale. Participation in this type of auction allows local cattle producers to explore additional marketing opportunities, connect with buyers beyond the local area, and potentially increase the value of their livestock. It also provides valuable experience in understanding the video auction process and the advantages of marketing cattle through alternative sales platforms. The successful participation of Ash Creek and Point of Pines reflects the importance of cooperation, preparation, and partnerships in strengthening the cattle industry on the San Carlos Apache Reservation. Special recognition goes to Justina Slim and Dine’ College for their assistance and support in making this opportunity possible. Their involvement helped connect local ranching operations with a larger livestock marketing platform and demonstrated the value of collaboration in supporting the Associations. The San Carlos Cattle Association recognizes the importance of creating opportunities for local ranchers to access competitive markets, improve their marketing strategies, and strengthen their operations. Experiences such as this video auction help build knowledge, encourage participation, and open doors for future sales opportunities. Continued collaboration among ranchers, educational institutions, and agricultural organizations will be important in supporting the long-term success of the cattle industry. The San Carlos Cattle Association congratulates Ash Creek and Point of Pines on their successful participation and extends its appreciation to everyone who contributed to making the sale possible. This achievement is another positive step toward supporting local ranchers, promoting economic opportunities, and strengthening the future of cattle ranching on the San Carlos Apache Reservation.
10 All Board of Directors Election The All Board of Directors, comprised of the Presidents from all participating Associations, has officially voted to appoint the following individuals to serve in leadership positions: • President: Steve Titla • Vice President: Marvin Mull • Treasurer/Secretary: Anthony Hoffman These appointments reflect the collective decision of the participating Associations and establish the leadership team responsible for guiding the All Board of Directors. The newly elected Officers will work collaboratively with the individual Associations to provide leadership, promote cooperation, support organizational goals, and advance the interests of the San Carlos Cattle Association overall. The All Board of Directors looks forward to working together to strengthen communication, encourage unity, and address the needs and priorities of all participating Associations.
11 Sponsorship & Donation Request On behalf of the San Carlos Cattle Association, in preparation for our 2026 Employee Holiday Event, taking place on December 18, 2026. This annual gathering is an important tradition that allows us to honor the dedication, hard work, and commitment of our employees who support the economic and cultural mission of the Cattle Association throughout the year. Our employees work tirelessly to sustain and strengthen the Tribe’s livestock management and cattle operations—efforts that directly benefit the broader San Carlos Apache community. The Holiday Event is an opportunity for us to give back to them with a meaningful celebration of appreciation. To make this year’s event truly memorable, we are seeking monetary sponsorships from community partners, businesses, and organizations who value supporting tribal programs and workforce recognition. Your contribution will help us provide meals, gifts, recognition awards, and family- friendly activities for our staff. Sponsorship Contributions Will Support: • Employee appreciation gifts and awards • Event meals and refreshments • Venue and program support • Raffle prizes and holiday activities We welcome donations of any amount, and sponsors will be recognized during the event program and in event materials. If desired, we would also be happy to acknowledge your organization on our digital platforms and at future community events. Your partnership would mean a great deal—not only to our employees, but to the continued success of the Cattle Association and its service to the San Carlos Apache Tribe. If you are able to support this event, please feel free to contact (928) 475-2241 or Goseyun.Colleen@yahoo.com. Thank you for considering this request and for your ongoing support of the San Carlos Cattle Association and community initiatives. We greatly appreciate your time and generosity. Thank you!