Dick Tanner is a role model and spokesperson for their profession. He served as president of the cattlemen's association, as well as on the prestigious branding board. He took the lead in partnering with the State Land Board and The Nature Conservancy when doing so was neither popular nor common. And he set the example for his fellow ranchers on how ranching can survive economically while coexisting with scientific and conservation interests at the same time.

The Tanner's ultimate contribution to the ranching community and the preservation of working ranches might lie in the fact that their son, Nate, has chosen to return to the ranch to work side by side with his father. Under Dick's mentorship, Nate has grown into a well-respected and expert rancher, heavily involved with the State Land Board and currently serving as president of the Pike's Peak Cattlemen's Association.

"I am honored to write this letter of support on behalf of Dick Tanner," wrote Jay Frost of Frost Livestock Company in his letter of recommendation. He is a very effective leader as he has gained the respect of cattlemen, environmentalists, scientists, business partnerships, family, neighbors, and his community. Dick Tanner cares deeply about the people and the land. There is no better man to steward these resources than Dick Tanner."