Andee Leininger, Otero College Recruiter, Publishes ‘Half a Lifetime of Drought’

On Dec. 22, 2022, the book Half a Lifetime of Drought, written by Andee Leininger was made available for purchase on Amazon.com. This is Leininger’s first published work, but likely will not be her last.

This 132-page book starts out with Leininger’s own experiences as a sixth-generation rancher. After noticing a gap in literature that relayed drought management practices, Leininger wrote this book to be a resource for ranchers and landowners. She shares her knowledge and experience to guide others in the management of their own businesses. In the book, Leininger uses scientific knowledge from her schooling and previous positions to connect the dots between why soils and plants do what they do during a drought and how ranchers or landowners can adapt to maximize their resources. She also shares animal science facts and how to apply this knowledge in an easy-to-understand way. She really focuses on breaking the science down and translates it into uncomplicated terms so that all are able to use it in their own management.

Having grown up on a ranch outside of La Junta, Colo., Leininger knows first-hand the ins and outs of running a cow/calf operation during an extended time of drought. This was her motivation to pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree in Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management from the University of Wyoming. After college, she took a position with the Natural Resources Conservation Service as a Rangeland Management Specialist. She now works at Otero College as the recruiter and is currently teaching Animal Health and Livestock Practicum courses. If that wasn’t enough, she owns and operates her own business, SECO Ranch Planning and is a Certified Professional in Rangeland Management.

According to Leininger, “The biggest challenge was figuring out how to relay scientific information that wasn’t too technical but still applicable.” Her goal is to help others who are or will go through the same or similar circumstances. She is approachable and willing to share her knowledge with anyone who asks. Leininger is also exceptionally self-motivated as is evident by the fact that she finished this publication within three years. Amazon Publishing Agency helped with soft editing and formatting, but she gave herself deadlines and stuck to them. Her next book, already in progress, is a modern western mystery novel.

For your chance to own a signed copy of Half a Lifetime of Drought, those interested can go to the Junction Plaza located at 319 Santa Fe Ave. in La Junta on Sat. Jan 21 where Leininger will be from 1 to 3 p.m. (weather permitting). Books purchased at the event will be $15 or can be purchased on Amazon as a paperback for $13.99 plus shipping and tax, or in the Kindle format for $9.99 plus tax.