Department of Animal Sciences

Charter Members, Distinguished Service

Dayton "Hawk" and Gerda Hyde own "Yamsi," a Hereford cattle ranch on the Willamette River, 30 miles from Chiloquin.  Dayton and Gerda attended the University of California at Berkeley and Davis, respectively.   "Hawk" is author of eight books including Yamsi, a book about their ranch, and Sandy, the story of a Sand Hill Crane.  He was on the national board of directors for the Defenders of Wildlife.  Both Dayton and Gerda are active in the Klamath County and Oregon Cattlemen's Associations.  Gerda served as president of the Oregon Cow Belles and National Cattlewomen.  She provides much of the management for their ranch operations.  At Yamsi, water and range conservation measures have increased grazing capacity and enhanced habitat for fish and wildlife.  Eagles, ospreys, swans and game animals flourish with the cattle.