Nevada Department of Agriculture warns against picking up calves

Spring is calving season in northern Nevada, and it is an important and profitable time of year for cattlemen across the state. The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) reminds Nevadans to let lone calves be. When passersby see calves alone near roadways, the animals are often mistaken as abandoned. People unfamiliar with cattle ranching may not know that cows leave their calves alone while they graze.

“Calf theft is a serious issue because the cost of production is extremely high,” Sam Mori, Nevada Cattlemen’s Association (NCA), said.

When calves go missing without explanation this time of year, it is often reported to the NDA as theft. Cattle theft is considered grand larceny under Nevada Revised Statute (NRS) chapter 205.220. Calves should never be moved, taken or otherwise disturbed.

“Stealing cattle leads to economic loss for the rancher and is a felony in Nevada,” Doug Farris, NDA Animal Industry division administrator, said. “If ranchers suspect a calf has been stolen, they should contact us as soon as possible. The sooner an enforcement officer can begin work on the case, the more likely the case will be solved.”

Individuals suspecting cattle theft are encouraged to fill out the livestock missing/theft form, and an enforcement officer will contact them about the theft.

The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) promotes a business climate that is fair, economically viable and encourages a sustainable environment that serves to protect food, fiber and health and human safety through effective service and education. The NDA includes the divisions of Administration, Animal Industry, Consumer Equitability, Food and Nutrition and Plant Industry.