
Enhancing grassland ecosystems while sustaining private, profitable ranching
Dailyn Zierolf
Seidler Ranch
Dailyn Zierolf, from Basin, Wyoming, is currently completing her senior year at the University of Wyoming, where she is pursuing a degree in Animal Science with a concentration in Range Livestock. Additionally, she has minors in Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management. This summer, Dailyn will participate in the Sandhills Ranch Internship Program at the Seidler Ranch near Alliance.
Although she did not grow up on a farm or ranch, agriculture became an integral part of her life through her involvement in 4-H and FFA. As an active member in both organizations, she competed in state events and showed horses and market lambs. These experiences not only introduced her to agriculture but also helped shape her career path.
Dailyn credits her involvement in 4-H and FFA as the experiences that truly developed her interest in agriculture. Through those organizations, she discovered a passion for the industry and connected with mentors who encouraged and inspired her to pursue a career in agriculture.
She applied for the Sandhills Ranch Internship Program to gain hands-on experience in ranch operations and continue developing skills that will make her a more confident and well-rounded candidate in the agricultural industry. In 2024, she had an incredible experience as an intern in the program, where she grew more confident in her abilities and gained valuable skills that she hopes to build on this year.
She is especially looking forward to experiencing the Sandhills landscape and learning more about ranch work and management. During the internship, she hopes to strengthen her skills in cattle management, handling, and practical ranch work while continuing to expand her knowledge of the industry.
Outside of agriculture, Dailyn enjoys baking, sewing, and photography. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue opportunities in the cattle industry, particularly in the areas of nutrition or reproduction.
A little more about Dailyn: Living in Wyoming, she has spent much of her life surrounded by mountains, which makes the Sandhills a unique landscape to experience. If she could instantly learn any ranch skill, it would be roping. Her favorite quote is, "If you've got a dream, chase it, because a dream won't chase you back," from Cody Johnson's song "Till You Can't."
