Colorado Cattlemen’s Association Honors Industry Leaders

DENVER, CO — The Colorado Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) has recognized industry leaders at this year’s Annual Convention.

CCA recognized several outstanding individuals and award winners during its 2026 Annual Convention.

“Their dedication, leadership, and commitment continue to strengthen both CCA and Colorado agriculture,” CCA said in a news release. 

The 2026 award recipients are:

• Leopold Conservation Award – Eagle Rock Ranch of Jefferson, CO, owned and operated by the Gottenborg Family
• Honorary Lifetime Member – Gene Manuello, Sterling, Colo.
• Volunteer of the Year Award – Willie Altenburg, Wellington, Colo
• Outgoing President Recognition and Award – Curt Russell, Sugar City, Colo.
• Incoming President Recognition and Award – Mark LeValley, Hotchkiss, Colo.
• Outgoing Board Member Recognition and Award – Robert Farnam, Brush, Colo., Jim Santomaso, Sterling, Colo., and John Raftopolous, Craig, Colo.

CCA recently celebrated its 159th Annual Convention in Loveland with members and stakeholders from across the state. The convention featured engaging committee meetings, the ninth annual Ranching Legacy Symposium, the “Under the Big Top” reception and “Big Top Bash” banquet, valuable opportunities to connect with fellow producers and industry partners, and much more. 

The Colorado Cattlemen’s Association’s (CCA) is the state’s premier cattlemen’s association serving as the principal voice and advocate for Colorado beef production. CCA accomplishes this through its vision of “advancing the legacy” of beef production for its members by ensuring a dynamic and profitable industry that provides growth and opportunity for future generations.