An initiative is under way to identify and address issues affecting the agricultural industry in Western Colorado.

The Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction will launch what’s billed as the AgriWest initiative with a federal grant from the Economic Recovery Corps.

Janie VanWinkle, a West Slope rancher and beef producer, will serve as a fellow and provide planning and technical assistance over the course of a 30-month term.

Dalida Bollig, chief executive officer of the Business  Incubator Center, said she expects the initiative to bolster the agriculture industry and food security in the region. “With 40 percent of the region’s economy relying on agriculture, AgriWest is set to emerge as a critical and positive tool for the future. It has the potential to share regional agricultural economic development strategies and fortify the agricultural sector while honoring the region’s agricultural roots.”

VanWinkle agreed. “Success will look like honest conversations with all voices in our industry to create a road map for a sustainable future for our region as we tackle water scarcity; increased food and production costs; and the benefits and challenges present with the workforce, transportation, production, tourism, technology and changes to the industry. A focus on financial and economic success for both legacy producers and new innovators will be a priority.”

AgriWest was among 65 initiatives selected for funding out of more than 500 applicants. The goal is to gather stakeholders in the agriculture sector to identify and address problems that could affect the industry.

One fellow will work with each initiative, bringing to the effort knowledge of the region and leading discussions that result in solutions.

VanWinkle, her husband, Howard, and family operate a cow-calf operation, selling calves to feedlots as well as beef directly to consumers. Their operation includes not only the property at their home near Fruita, but also property they lease east of Whitewater as well as federal grazing allotments on the Grand Mesa and Uncompahgre Plateau.

The VanWinkles have belonged to the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association for more than 30 years. Janie VanWinkle served on the CCA board of directors, including a term as president.

Colorado Parks & Wildlife honored the VanWinkle Ranch as the CCA 2019 Landowner of the Year for efforts to improve resources that also benefit wildlife.

Earlier this year, the VanWinkle Ranch received a National Beef Quality Assurance Award in the cow-calf category. The awards recognize animal care and handling principles as part of day-to-day
activities as well as a commitment to improving operations while also encouraging others to implement the producer education program.

Janie VanWinkle also serves as a member of the Grand Valley Power Board of directors. She previously managed the Barnes & Noble when an outlet opened in Grand Junction and owned a Nick-N-Willy’s Pizza franchise in Grand Junction until she sold the restaurant in 2015.

Mesa County Commissioner Bobbie Daniel praised the AgriWest initiative. “This grant creates an opportunity to break down silos and align our efforts and work together. This initiative is a ground up, locally driven effort with real experience informing the solutions.”