Laurie Boner has been a steadfast advocate for Wyoming agriculture, making an enduring mark on the community through her dedication, mentorship, and leadership. In 2024, she was inducted to the Wyoming Agriculture Hall of Fame. 

Laurie's childhood allowed her to spend time on her family's ranch, instilling within her a passion for horses and the concept of range management that spurred a path into the world of agriculture. 

Following obtaining a degree in food science, she began to work for the Wyoming Department of Agriculture. When asked about her career with the Department, Laurie emphasized the importance of mentorship. She explains how having a strong mentor helped propel her career forward. She credits her success to the mentorship of Jim Schwartz, the department's Deputy Director, whose guidance influenced her career. Laurie traveled the state with Jim, learning the importance of leadership and collaboration while focusing on natural resources, environmental policies, and endangered species management. In her role, Laurie was deeply committed to improving the morale of field staff, ensuring they felt supported and valued. 

In Laurie's conversation with WAIC staff, she emphasized the importance of educating youth and the public so that they understand where their food comes from and the surrounding policies that impact that process. 

Laurie is deeply rooted in her family's ranching operation, raising sheep and cattle near Glenrock, helping manage their annual bull sale, and running LB Boutique Designs. Her involvement extends to numerous organizations, including the Wyoming State Fair, Wyoming Stock Growers Association, Converse County Stock Growers, Converse County Tourism Board, and Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust. 

Laurie's passion for Wyoming agriculture is unwavering, and her dedication to community service and preserving the state's agricultural heritage is an inspiration to all.

What is the biggest misconception that folks (even in Wyoming/rural communities) have around food and agricultural production? What more can be done to help address this?

I think there is still a common misunderstanding about how our food is raised, but more importantly, people have become complacent and take food for granted. The misconceptions stem from believing farming and ranching can negatively impact the environment, for example, by using pesticides on crops or by overgrazing. In addition, people may not understand some of the practices used in handling livestock and often view them as inhumane.

Environmentalists and the media continue to paint a negative picture, and it continues to be challenging to stay in front of their efforts because of not knowing what tactics they are going to use until after the fact. Education is key to addressing this. Social media is a strong tool that we can utilize, and I would like to see more organizations dedicate and employ individuals, such as a social media marketer who would be responsible for creating educational posts, blogs, videos, podcasts, etc., that would serve to educate and increase awareness in a positive way about agriculture and food production.

I believe the Wyoming Department of Agriculture or the Wyoming Business Council, Agribusiness section, could be very helpful because they represent the various sectors we have in Wyoming agriculture.

In your opinion and experience, how does agriculture education for youth help shape lives and future outcomes versus other extra-curricular activities?

I believe agriculture can lay a strong foundation for youth because from an early age you are taught the important principle that if you take care of the land and the livestock, they will take care of you. I liken it to the old idiom of blood, sweat, and tears because learning how to work hard, earn your way, problem-solve, make decisions, and be responsible forms the basis for building character, independence, and resilience. The important life skills taught at home or via participating in 4-H and FFA, more often, both, give youth a broader understanding of agriculture and our food system. In addition, these skills can enhance leadership development and strengthen an individuals business sense. I cannot think of another extra-curricular activity that can compare.

What is your advice to a younger person interested in pursuing a career in ranching, livestock management, an/or any other field related to agribusiness?

Embrace your passion and pursue it. Passion is the driver behind hard work, determination, and a can-do attitude. While you're young, broaden your horizons and challenge yourself to learn and experience new things. If you are the next generation given the opportunity to return home to the family operation or business for at least a year, go work for someone else first. Both you and your family will benefit. Lastly, earn your own way. There is no other way to achieve the sense of pride in yourself and the respect you will receive from others. Overcoming hardships with your own humility, hard work, and fortitude will lead to far greater personal growth and ultimate success. Whether it's given or taken, entitlement serves no useful purpose.