[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 71 (Tuesday, April 29, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Pages S2658-S2659]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          RECOGNIZING THE 160TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE JOYCE RANCH

 Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the 160th 
anniversary of the Joyce Ranch in Owyhee County, ID--an extraordinary 
milestone in the history of Gem State agriculture and a testament to 
the enduring strength of family.
  Officially known as Joyce Livestock Company, Joyce Ranch proudly 
holds the title of Idaho's oldest family-owned ranch. Established by 
Matthew Joyce in 1865, the Joyce Ranch has flourished over five 
generations. For the Joyces, hard work, resilience, and family are not 
just a shared priority, but the key to success. Today, it comprises 
approximately 11,000 acres of deeded land and an additional 120,000 
acres for grazing.

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  Joyce Ranch has been passed down by the same family since inception, 
a rarity in our rapidly changing world and a truly remarkable 
achievement. The legacy of Matthew Joyce and Idaho's rich agricultural 
history was carried on by his daughter Maggie Joyce Nettleton and her 
son Hubert, who played a pivotal role in maintaining the ranch through 
both challenges and triumphs.
  As we celebrate this significant achievement, it is essential to 
recognize the commitment and sacrifices ranchers and their families 
make to keep operations like Joyce Ranch thriving. Hubert followed 
family tradition by passing the family ranch to his son Paul Nettleton. 
The current management of Joyce Ranch, Paul and his son Chad, represent 
the next generation--bringing with them fresh perspectives and modern 
approaches, while honoring the traditions that have defined their ranch 
for more than a century.
  The Joyce family's stewardship of the land demonstrates their 
profound commitment to properly managing the resources for the future 
while meeting the demands of our agricultural landscape. The evolution 
of ranching reflects the broader changes in our society, as today's 
ranchers must embrace technology and data-driven methods to succeed. 
This adaptability is crucial for the longevity of family-owned ranching 
operations like Joyce Ranch.
  I am honored to recognize the hard work and dedication that has 
sustained Joyce Ranch for 160 years and made it a cherished feature of 
the Owyhee County community. Their legacy, which symbolizes the spirit 
of Western ranching and our deep agricultural heritage, is truly 
remarkable.

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