September 18, 2014 Comments are off Montana Stockgrowers Association
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New Digital Photography Book to Feature Ladies of Montana Ranching

LL Book Promo BannerHelena, MT – “Ladies and Livestock: Life on the Ranch,” the second book in the Montana Family Ranching Series, from the Research and Education Endowment Foundation of the Montana Stockgrowers Association (REEF), is set to be released on October 1. The digital book is a pictorial explanation of Montana women and their roles in the ranching community.

“Women are often described as the ‘backbone’ to the ranch and we want to capture what that means in this book,” said Lauren Chase, author and photographer.

Ladies and Livestock is leading the way in multimedia technology and storytelling as it will be released in digital format instead of print. Available in the Apple iBook store beginning October 1, 2014, readers will be able to download Ladies and Livestock to their iPads and flip through the vivid imagery with the swipe of their fingers.

This book features over 130 pages of stories, photographs and video features of the ladies who raise livestock, care for the land, and build their families’ legacies on Montana ranches. Not only are these Montana women working on the ranch, many have jobs in town, volunteer in their communities, and are involved in the legislation process of issues affecting agriculture.

Ladies and Livestock is the second in a series of book featured in the Montana Family Ranching Series. The first edition, Big Sky Boots, released in 2012, features the working seasons of the Montana cowboy and is available in print edition from the Montana Stockgrowers Association by visiting bit.ly/BigSkyBoots.

 “This series is meant to help people understand what it takes to make a Montana ranch operate successfully and also, to show the wonderful ranch families that make it possible. Creating the book for the iPad is really exciting for us because we can reach new audiences much easier through digital means,” said Chase.

By utilizing the digital technology, “Ladies and Livestock” adds a new dimension to reading a book. Included on nearly 30 of the pages are video features that play with the touch of the finger. These videos show interviews of the ladies speaking on their ranch history, family life and how they feel about being part of Montana’s agriculture.

This book is a multimedia journey through the life of a woman on a Montana ranch. Not only can readers see photographs, but can hear the woman tell her own story and see the emotion on her face as she talks about how important her family is to her.

The book can be downloaded for $14.99 in the Apple iBook store by searching title: Ladies and Livestock. Proceeds from the sales of the book contribute to the Montana Stockgrowers Association’s Foundation to help support educational programs and scholarships for youth.

To learn more about this project and the author, visit www.mtbeef.org. You can also follow along with this story-telling project on MSGA’s Facebook, Twitter, Blog, Instagram and Pinterest pages.

The Research and Education Endowment Foundation of the Montana Stockgrowers Association is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization established to provide resources for education and research that support the Montana Stockgrowers Association in protecting and enhancing the ability of the Montana ranching community to produce healthy and environmentally responsible beef. To learn more about REEF programs or to donate to the Foundation, visit mtbeef.org/REEF or contact the Montana Stockgrowers Association, (406) 442-3420.
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September 17, 2014 Comments are off Montana Stockgrowers Association
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Montana Registered Dietitian Interns see Beef from Pasture to Plate

Registerd Dietitian Interns Beef TourThe Montana Beef Council recently hosted another successful pasture to plate tour for nearly twenty students pursuing a career as a Registered Dietitian. The tour was conducted in Nye, Montana with local rancher Noel Keogh where the attendees were able to experience first-hand where and how beef is raised.

This year’s tour began at the ranch headquarters where Keogh explained his family ranching operation and the history of the area to the interns to help them understand the importance of agriculture and specifically beef production.

“As a rancher it is important for me to share my story and help consumers understand where their food comes from,” said Keogh.

Throughout the tour the interns not only had the opportunity to see cattle and horses, but also shipping facilities, rangeland and more. Keogh shared his passion for plant identification as he described different forages and explained their nutritional value. While hiking around the ranch the interns learned about the entire beef cycle and that cattle spend the majority of their lives on pasture. Keogh thoroughly detailed the value of natural resources and how, as a rancher, it is important to maintain a healthy partnership with the land in order to be a good steward and remain a viable ranching operation.

“Ranching is sustainable. Your ranch doesn’t get to be one hundred years old without taking good care of the land and livestock,” Keogh said.

Following a healthy beef lunch, the interns heard from Montana Beef Council’s Registered Dietitian Lisa Murray. Murray explained the nutritional benefits of beef and helped the health professionals understand how beef can be part of a healthy lifestyle. The beef checkoff-funded study, Beef in and Optimal Lean Diet, was a focal part of the presentation to provide the interns with sound, science-based information.

“Providing these health professionals with accurate information and a first-hand experience enables them to feel confident when recommending beef to their patients and clients,” said Murray.

To complete the day, the interns were engaged in a media training workshop conducted by Daren Williams, Senior Executive Director of Communications for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the beef checkoff. During the workshop the interns learned valuable information for conducting a successful media interview and then put their skills to work for an on-camera interview about beef-related topics.

The Montana Beef Council is organized to protect and increase demand for beef and beef products through state, national and international consumer marketing programs including promotion, education and research, thereby enhancing profit opportunities for Montana beef producers. For more information, contact Chaley Harney at (406) 656-3336 or [email protected].

September 16, 2014 Comments are off Montana Stockgrowers Association
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Montana Rancher Q and A: Tyrel Obrecht

Many of us in Montana got to know Tyrel Obrecht pretty well while he was interning for the Montana Stockgrowers Association two summers ago. But today, we learn more about his family’s ranching background, some of the obstacles faced on a Montana ranch, and his advice for other young ranchers. Read today’s Q&A feature:

Tyrel Obrecht of Turner, Montana.

Tyrel Obrecht of Turner, Montana.

How long has your family been involved in ranching? 

My great-great Grandpa, George Petrie, got off the train in 1901 in Harlem, MT. From there, he headed north, and ran sheep on the ranch that is ours today. Today, my dad (Sam), and grandpa (Sonny) run cows. The ranch headquarters are exactly where they were when the ranch started

What was your favorite part about growing up on the ranch?

It’s something different everyday. The type of work changes with the seasons, and you are able to be your own boss and be outdoors whenever you want.  I’m also very fortunate the ranch was located in Turner, MT.  Small communities are like one big family. Neighbors always come help, and we return the favor.

Haying in full swing during the summer of 2014.

Haying in full swing during the summer of 2014.

Tell us about your ranch today.

We run Black Angus cattle.  I’m proud that the operation has been in my family for as long as it has and has been able to succeed through hard times.

What have been some of the trials you’ve had to overcome?

Weather is a big issue for cattle ranchers in Montana.  In the late early 2000s, the summers were dry and we spent a lot of time pulling black plastic pipe across our pasture to pump water for our cattle.  This also led to low hay production, so that added more stress to look for hay to purchase. There have also been a few harsh winters that require a lot of work to feed the cattle, break ice so they can drink, and plow snow.  Montana is certainly a land of extremes, and ranchers are exposed to every one of them.

What is one thing you wish more people knew about life on the ranch?

The time that ranchers put in to care for the animals.  There is a lot of negative media out there about animal cruelty, and agriculture seems to be in the spotlight for it.  What people don’t see is the rancher who is outside saving a calf when it’s cold in the spring or taking extra time at branding to examine an animal who appears sick.  These animals are how Montana ranchers make their living, so it is the rancher’s best interest to take the best care of them they can.

Tyrel and his father, Sam.

Tyrel and his father, Sam.

What does it mean to you to be able to work with your family every day? 

Working with family can be very hard, but it’s also a great learning experience.  By working along side another generation, you are able to learn what worked for them, and what didn’t.  Nobody knows more about an operation than the owner themselves, so being able to work alongside them is a great learning experience.

Tell us about your job now and how you keep connected to the ranch.

Being involved with Ag-lending with Wells Fargo has enabled me to meet producers from different areas and see what they do differently, as well as what they do the same as my family.  Majority of the bankers I work with came from an agricultural background, so everyone has similar roots, interests, and knowledge base.  Through building a network in banking, I’m able to continually share ideas with my dad.  Living in a place centrally located like Billings has also made it easy for me to come home on weekends from time to time and help.

Tyrel participated in the NCBA internship program during the Cattle Industry Convention.

Tyrel participated in the NCBA internship program during the Cattle Industry Convention.

After spending a summer as the MSGA intern, what did you learn from that experience? About Montana cattle ranching?

Just like my experience at Wells Fargo, working with MSGA enabled me to meet cattle ranchers from all over in Montana and learn about their success and trials.  The MSGA staff really showed me the importance of networking, and being able to meet as many people as you can.  That has really helped me so far in banking.  Knowing as many people as I can expands my knowledge base, which enables me to assist customers as efficiently as possible.

Do you have any advice for fellow young Montana ranchers about the beef cattle business?

Get to know as many people as possible, and treat people properly.  You never know obstacles you might meet in the future, and knowing as many people as possible could help make those obstacles much easier to overcome.  Also, when doing business or working with someone, treat them properly.  If they had a good experience working with you, chances are they’ll call back again.

What’s your favorite beef dish?

All beef dishes are good!  But barbequed t-bone steak is my favorite.

 To participate in a future Q&A or to recommend someone from the Montana ranching community, please contact [email protected].

Wayne Slaght Ovando Montana Stockgrowers Association Board of Directors
August 22, 2014 Comments are off Montana Stockgrowers Association
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Director’s Update: Western Montana

By Wayne Slaght, MSGA Director, Western District

Wayne Slaght Ovando Montana Stockgrowers Association Board of DirectorsAs the second half of 2014 begins, everyone has cattle out on grass, keeping a close eye on them and putting up the hay for another Montana winter.

If you had a chance to go to the Mid-Year Stockgrowers meeting in Miles City last month, you were treated to a great event. Compliments go out to Fred, Terry, and the staff of MSGA. They did a great job of putting this amazing event together and I for one, thank you for all the blood, sweat and tears it to make it run so smoothly!

Calf prices are the hot topic right now for stock growers! We are receiving record prices for our cattle at this time. It’s great for the industry and producers everywhere are smiling about the prices we are receiving.

The local affiliate groups are working on many issues. I just attended the monthly meeting of the Rocky Mountain Stockgrowers. They are energetic groups who have many irons in the fire. I believe their president, Kim Skinner is also giving an update so, I’ll let him talk about their specific issues.

I am going to the western Montana Stockmen’s meeting later this week.

I hope all of the affiliate members are out working hard a generating more MSGA memberships and trying to win the John Deere Gator that was generously donated to us by Frontline Ag. Click here to learn more – mtbeef.org/tophand.

I am very honored to be a first year member of the Board of Directors of such a great organization. I still have a lot to learn, but am willing to help in any way I can. Should you have a need or concern, please feel free to give me a call. Hoping that summer in our great state is treating you well and that your hay crops are proving to be abundant!

August 22, 2014 Comments are off Montana Stockgrowers Association
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Director’s Update on Events in North Central Montana

By Leon LaSalle, MSGA Director, North Central District

Youth participate in Super Starters events at the recent Montana Range Days

Youth participate in Super Starters events at the recent Montana Range Days

Greetings from North Central Montana where haying season is in full swing! It is not nearly as productive as last year’s record production, but we are still thankful for what we are getting. We had a dry, cold spring, which has definitely affected our production in the hay fields, and our native range is still looking good.

Since I last provided an update in February, the North Central Stockgrowers hosted the March Board meeting in Havre and treated board members, staff and local businesses to a meet-and-greet prime rib lunch.

North Central Stockgrowers President, Teddy Crowely

North Central Stockgrowers President, Teddy Crowley

I have been attending the local affiliate’s meetings on a regular basis to keep MSGA’s presence on a local level. One of the items that came out of this was MSGA working with North Central Stockgrowers to help sponsor the banquet for Montana Range Days, held at Beaver Creek County Park in June.

The North Central Stockgrowers wanted to provide the participants with a high quality BEEF dinner for their dedication to Range Days. Scott Young of Bear Paw Catering and the Havre Eagles Club served a magnificent prime rib dinner to highlight how high quality forage can produce high quality beef. Many of the long time instructors and participants commented that it was the best meal they ever had at Range Days.

North Central Stockgrowers is issuing a challenge to the South Central Stockgrowers to follow our lead and sponsor next year’s Range Days banquet. It is our hope that we have started a tradition that will carry on for years to come much like Montana Wool Growers tradition of providing a barbeque lunch for range days.

I also want to thank Fred Wacker and Terry Haughian for all their hard work on a great Mid-Year meeting. I never thought I would get to help herd cattle through Miles City or any other city for that matter.

Young Adult groups participate in the recent Montana Range Days events near Havre

Young Adult groups participate in the recent Montana Range Days events near Havre

August 12, 2014 Comments are off Montana Stockgrowers Association
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Montana Rancher Q and A: Rose Malisani, Cascade

Rose Malisani on her horse near Cascade, MT.

Rose Malisani on her horse near Cascade, MT.

Rose Malisani and her mother, Cindy, ranch near Cascade Montana.  Rose not only helps on the family ranch, but she also is the MSU Cascade County Ag Extension agent, where she gets to help youth and local ranchers learn more about their livestock and land. If you haven’t met Rose, when you do, you will immediately have a smile on your face…she has the wonderful ability to make people laugh and feel happy. Read more about Rose and her family on today’s blog:

How long has your family been involved in ranching?

My family has been involved in agriculture for four generations. My maternal great-grandfather was a cattle and sheep buyer. He started in Windham, MT and eventually moved his family to the ranch in Cascade, MT. My maternal grandmother’s family farmed out of Geraldine, MT. Both my paternal grandparents were born in Italy and moved to the United States in the early 1900s. They started a very successful tile and terrazzo family business that is currently operated by my cousins. My dad decided to sell the family business to my uncle in the late 1970s and began ranching. My mom has some great stories of teaching the city guy how to ranch!

What was your favorite part about growing up on the ranch?

Working with my brother, Jack. He took me under his wing and taught me how to operate the tractors, fence, cuss, work with cattle, and so much more. Those were short, sweet years.

Rose Malisani Cascade 1

Trailing cattle on the ranch.

Tell us about your ranch today.

We’ve run a bred heifer operation for the last 15 years where we sell quality commercial Angus heifers to ranchers. We started running cows again in the past year and it’s fun to see calves back on the place. We also breed and ride AQHA horses. Our horses over the years have gone into the rodeo, show, ranching, jumping, and movie worlds in the United States and Canada.

What have been some of the trials you’ve had to overcome?

Life is about how you react to change. One needs to know how to roll with the punches and adjust. Sometimes a surprising change works out splendidly.

What is one thing you wish more people knew about life on the ranch?

The beauty of it. Being able to get to swing your leg over a good horse and gather cattle in the mountains is my idea of heaven. Farmers and ranchers work so hard every day to feed their family and other people’s families.

What does it mean to you to be able to work with your family every day?

The stories of days gone by. My grandparents and mom tell about when they grew up on the ranch and their dreams for the future. I wouldn’t change it for the world.

Is there anything you would have done differently on the ranch if given the chance? 

Rose and her mother, Cindy (left).

Rose and her mother, Cindy (left).

I would have to say no. I’m a firm believer on not living with regrets and when change is needed, do it. Tell us about your current job and why you are excited to be a part of agriculture in that capacity. Besides working on the ranch I am the MSU Cascade County Ag Extension agent based out of Great Falls, MT. My job is extremely exciting that some days I don’t know if I will be helping a gardener with their tomatoes, inspecting a wheat field for disease, traveling for a training, helping a rancher with nitrate tests or working with 4-H members with their horse and livestock projects. The beauty of my job is to see people and talk about my favorite topic, agriculture. I started off working for the Montana Beef Council and then the Montana Stockgrowers Association out of college and I cannot express how blessed I am to have worked Montana ranchers.

Do you have any advice for future Montana rancher generations about running a successful beef cattle business?

Open communication with family members and partners. Develop a plan and put goals in place. Partner meetings are extremely important.

What’s your favorite beef dish?

A rare steak off the grill. Can’t beat it!

Is there anything else you can share with us?

Do good work in everything you do. Be honest and helpful.

August 4, 2014 Comments are off Montana Stockgrowers Association
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Stockgrowers Foundation Announces Change in Leadership


Foundation Logo - ColorAt their recent Mid Year meeting in Miles City, the Research and Education Endowment Foundation of the Montana Stockgrowers Association (REEF) announced a change in leadership as Townsend rancher Dusty Hahn finished his five-year term as Foundation Chairman. John Grande of Martinsdale will serve as the newly elected Chairman and Gary Adams of Billings will join the REEF Board as a new Trustee.

“It’s been an honor to have served as the Foundation Chairman for the last five years,” according to Dusty Hahn. “In my nine years as a Trustee, I really feel that the Foundation has helped Montana Stockgrowers become a more proactive organization, and that has been a great benefit to our membership.”

Under Hahn’s leadership, the Foundation has evolved from managing a handful of small projects into one that tackles larger, more complex projects. REEF is a strong supporter of youth and outreach programs in the Montana ranching community, funding projects that raise awareness of Montana ranching families and documenting their work through a detailed book and video series.

The Foundation also sponsors a young rancher from Montana each year to attend the Young Cattlemen’s Conference; which helps participants gain exposure to national industry programs while visiting Denver, Chicago and Washington D.C.

Martinsdale rancher, John Grande, is excited about the opportunities ahead as he takes the reins of the Foundation. “It is a privilege to be asked to take this on and I look forward to the challenge,” says Grande.

“After serving the Foundation for the past five years I have become more familiar with how we have done things to date. Taking over as Chair is an opportunity to guide the Foundation in some new directions as well as sharpening the focus on current activities.”

Grande looks forward to developing new projects for REEF that will help grow the Foundation’s endowment, which in turn to provides scholarship opportunities for students and research programs that benefit members of the Montana ranching community.

“Change is inevitable and I look forward to the exciting change coming for the future of Montana ranching, while feeling confident that some things will not change,” says Grande.

“Great advances will be made in genetics, animal health, nutrition, cattle management, and many other areas, and the Stockgrowers’ Foundation can, and should, play a role in these advances. What will not change is that we will still have dedicated people living on the land, taking care of our environmental and animal resources, while providing a healthy, nutritious product for consumers worldwide.”

Gary Adams of Billings has been active with Montana’s non-profits, serving with the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch and Foundation, engaging with ranchers across Montana for the past 25 years. “I don’t know a better way to give back to MSGA and its membership for all they have done for the kids at YBGR, than to offer my skills to REEF,” says Adams. “At the heart of both organizations is the desire to help youth and to educate through agriculture.”

In his role as Trustee for MSGA’s Foundation, Adams hopes to bring a greater awareness of the creative options available to MSGA members in passing on their ranch to the next generation and ways to eliminate the amount of taxes paid through the sale of the land, cattle and machinery.

The Research and Education Endowment Foundation of the Montana Stockgrowers Association is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization established to ensure the future of Montana’s cattle industry through producer and public education, and promotion of MSGA programs. To learn more about REEF programs or to donate to the Foundation, visit mtbeef.org/REEF or contact the Montana Stockgrowers Association, (406) 442-3420.

July 31, 2014 Comments are off Montana Stockgrowers Association
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Board of Livestock Creates Budget Subcommittee, Encourages Industry Participation

Montana Department of Livestock DOL(The following is a press release from the Montana Department of Livestock after their Board meeting on Tuesday, July 29, 2014. Minutes from the meeting will be available on the DOL website. The Montana Stockgrowers encourages ranchers and members to provide us with feedback. Please contact us through email or call (406) 442-3420.)

In an effort to address funding issues for the Department of Livestock, the Montana Board of Livestock has created a subcommittee for budget oversight, guidance and planning.

Board chair Jan French, a cattle rancher from Hobson, appointed board members John Scully (Ennis/cattle), Brett DeBruycker (Denton/cattle) and John Lehfeldt (Lavina/sheep) to the subcommittee at yesterday’s Board of Livestock meeting, and encouraged industry groups to take a seat at the table and help find solutions to recent funding shortfalls.

“It’s clear that we have some issues with the budget, and that industry is concerned,” French said. “So the best way to move forward is by communicating and working together.”

Errol Rice, executive vice president of the Montana Stock Growers Association, said the state’s oldest industry group plans on playing a prominent role and hopes that other groups will also get involved.

“It’s a positive move,” Rice said of the subcommittee. “We’re looking forward to working with the board members and representatives from other livestock industry groups on issues like the budget, cash flow and the diagnostic laboratory. We have to keep looking forward.”

French said the one-day meeting was busy and productive, including the formation of the subcommittee.

In other board news:

  • Market audit compliance officer Laura Hughes reported on the pending sale of Headwaters Livestock Auction in Three Forks.
  • The Animal Health Division proposed administrative rule changes for tuberculosis testing on elephants (ARM 32.3.227); for handling anthrax-infected carcasses (ARMs 32.3.1002 and 32.3.1001); for tuberculosis testing on cervids (ARM32.3.221 and 32.3.602a); and for repeal of a rule requiring brucellosis vaccination for imported cattle (ARM 32.3.212a and 32.2.212).
  • Attorney Rob Stutz updated the board on the state Supreme Court’s recent decision to reaffirm the board’s 12-day milk labelling rule after a lengthy legal battle.

The next board meeting has been scheduled for September 29-30.

July 29, 2014 Comments are off Montana Stockgrowers Association
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Montana Rancher Feature Q&A: Lillian Ostendorf

Lillian and Tom Ostendorf.

Lillian and Tom Ostendorf.

Lillian and her husband, Tom, own and operate the Ostendorf Red Angus Ranch near Powderville, Montana. They are working to not only run a successful cattle business, but to be able to pass the ranch on to the next generation when the time is right. This family business means the world to the Ostendorfs…read more in today’s Q&A feature with Lillian:

How long has your family been involved in ranching?

Lillian Ostendorf (age 1) with her father.

Lillian Ostendorf (age 1) with her father.

My Norwegian grandparents came to this country and settled here around the time my Dad was born in 1917. The Orestad’s started a ranch on a section of land in Powder River County. My Dad grew up there and worked for ranches like the WL and the Brown Ranch. Dad met and married my Mom in Sioux City, IA. He worked for the stockyards, and later the Milwaukee railroad. They saved their money and bought their first section of land at the head of Ash Creek, in Custer County. From that section of land, our ranch has grown to about 17 sections, including the original Powder River section and the land that Tom and I bought and combined with my parents. (Dad passed away in 2004.)

What was your favorite part about growing up on the ranch?

My favorite part of growing up on the ranch was being my Dad’s sidekick, because it usually involved horses and riding. Whenever we didn’t have something to do, I could be found at the corral with the horses. I learned to ride bareback quite proficiently at an early age. I might not have been able to lift the saddle, but the old horse would let me bridle him and stand by the feed bunk until I scrabbled on.

Tell us about your ranch today.

Ostendorf Red Angus Ranch

Ostendorf Red Angus Ranch

Today our ranch consists of a herd of Red Angus cattle instead of Herefords, like Dad had. Using AI and Quality natural sires we have established a Registered Red Angus Herd and sell bulls. We have installed waterlines, cross fences, and established good grazing practices. Hay is more abundant on our dry land ranch since we developed alfalfa meadows and plant peas and hay barley for feed instead of wheat. Aaron and Mollie Phipps (our daughter) and the two grand boys are working with us on the ranch. Our son Steve has cattle and involvement in the ranch even though he is an engineer and works for an oil company in Minot. Even our daughter, Martha who writes for the JD Furrow magazine, comes out from Miles City to help on occasion. We continue to work the ranch in family style tradition.

What have been some of the trials you’ve had to overcome?

A few of the most trying setbacks we had to overcome were, a hailstorm that knocked out probably the best wheat and hay crop we have ever raised, a prairie fire that burned our ranch and neighboring ranches in 1996, but still probably the most devastating was the drought of 1988. Our ponds all went dry and grass was scarce. We had to move our cattle and my parent’s cattle to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in S.D. for the summer. It was really hard to keep watch over them that far away in 100 degree day temperatures. We hired a cowboy to check on them regularly and we made many trips that summer to fix fence and bring cattle back to their pastures. We were able to keep our cattle herd and bring them home in the fall.

What is one thing you wish more people knew about life on the ranch?

Screen Shot 2014-07-08 at 8.10.02 AM

Ostendorf Red Angus Ranch

Our ranch and cattle is not only our livelihood, but it is our backyard where we live and raise our families. We take pride in being good stewards of the land and work to make it sustain life not only for humans and cattle, but for the wildlife to co-exist as well.

What does it mean to you to be able to work with your family every day?

Working together with our family who fully understands our dedication and expectations towards the animals and the ranch, makes our life whole. Children grow up here learning about trials and responsibility side by side with grandparents and parents, to become responsible caring adults. It’s an indescribable prideful feeling, when after college they want to continue on the ranching tradition or they are responsible employees in another field.

How would describe “building a legacy” on the ranch?

Our goal has been to preserve the basic land we have making improvements that sustain it for the future. Improved grazing practices, waterlines, solar power wells, buffer grass strips in the water ways all contribute to the overall sustainability and wellbeing of continuing the heritage of a ranch, while improving the number of animals it will support. Teaching methods and patience to contribute to the humane handling of cattle, like being Beef Quality Assurance certified on our ranch is important to us. Do you have any advice for future Montana rancher generations about running a successful beef cattle business? Figure your expenses a little higher and cattle prices lower than you anticipate and enjoy it when it works out better than you figured. Keep extra cattle feed on hand for those unexpected long winters and storms. Treat your cattle, your helpers, and the land well and they will reward you back. Trials will come along, persevere and work your way through them. It is a great next year country!

Ostendorf Red Angus Ranch

Ostendorf Red Angus Ranch

What’s your favorite beef dish?

A medium rare beef steak grilled with a baked potato and salad has to be my favorite meal.

Is there anything else you can share with us?

Different problems face this generation. One of the biggest issues we face, in my opinion, is the challenge of our private property rights from the government. Interpretations of rules from government agencies like the EPA’s attempt at new definition of the Waters of the US that would establish their jurisdiction over dry ditches and creeks that only carry water once or twice a year will threaten ordinary practices on our ranches, like mending a ditch. The definition of the waters of the United States is only those “navigable” waters. The Supreme Court never intended for EPA to rule on dry streams and ditches, proven by two previous Supreme Court cases. It takes time away from our ranches to talk to legislators about these issues.

July 15, 2014 Comments are off Montana Stockgrowers Association
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Montana Rancher Q and A: Cam Cooper, Talon Ranch

Camron “Cam” Cooper of Twin Bridges, Montana had her sights set on running a cattle ranch and about twenty years ago, she was able to accomplish that dream. Cam owns the Talon Ranch which is both a commercial and registered seedstock Angus operation. Cam’s heart reaches far beyond the borders of Montana. She is leaving her entire estate to the Angus Foundation and established a scholarship program to help the nation’s young cattle raisers. Today on the blog, we feature Cam…her work, her ranch, her generosity…

Cam Cooper Talon Ranch 2.jpg

Camron “Cam” Cooper at home on the Talon Ranch

How long have you been involved in ranching?

I got started on my own about 20 years ago. I was a newcomer to the cattle business. In 1996, I bought my first commercial cattle and a few registered Angus which I kept adding to. Then in 2003, I sold all the commercial cows and became completely a registered Angus seedstock operation.

Why did you want to get involved in the cattle business?

It’s in my genetics. I had a cowboy granddad in Missouri, and in the 1920s, he moved out to California. I was born there in 1939. When I was 4-years-old, he bought me my first horse and I was hooked. Many years later, I was looking for a good spot to retire and In 1994, I moved to Montana.

Why did you chose to settle in Montana?

I visited Montana several times for business and had always loved those trips. The state just seemed opened and away from it all. I knew this is where I wanted to retire.

It seems like there is good ranch community support in your area. Do you agree?

I didn’t know very much when I first got into the business, but luckily my neighbors and those involved in the Angus breed helped me quite a bit. They are all very passionate about Angus and its benefits for the national cowherd. I work with the Sitz Angus Ranch in Dillon…they’ve been terrific and a huge support system.

Cam Cooper Talon Ranch Sign.jpgWhat are some of things you’ve learned over the years?

There is a great need for flexibility in the cattle business. You can have the best plan in the world…the best breeding genetics, but sometimes, it just doesn’t turn out like you wanted. Instead of beating your head against the fence post, you better shift gears. There are a number of things you have no control over so learn to deal with it.

Do you have any advice for young people in the ranching business?

Every situation is different and you can’t generalize. Get experience first and define your goals and objectives. But be ready to use that flexibility. You can’t just do it by the seat your pants.

What are your favorite days on the ranch?

I love the calving season…especially at the beginning. It’s one of the most rewarding things. But the thing is, the reward comes from all the hard work you put into the rest of the ranch year…everything from the preparation of the breeding season, (making sure your genetics are set up properly for the herd because it ends up being like a chess game when selecting genetics) to the actual breeding season…and later, the calving season. It’s labor intensive and a 24-hour a day job. We not only have to monitor the calves, but also constantly check the health of the momma cows…often times in drastically cold weather.

What else would you like our readers to know about?

It’s important for ranchers to stand up for what they’re doing. We raise cattle properly…from animal care to land stewardship. We have to do our best, because if not, we’re out of business. We also want to create the most satisfactory experience for the beef consumer we can. It takes time, money and great effort.

Cam Cooper Talon Ranch Mountains.jpgTell us more about the future of your ranch and your scholarship program.

My estate in entirety is going to be left to the Angus Foundation to provide scholarships for students interested in animal husbandry and cattle business operations. The Talon Ranch Scholarship has been up and running for 5 years. It just is so gratifying to provide this money to students who may not have had another means to get an opportunity. It warms my heart.

A word of thanks from Milford Jenkins, Angus Foundation president:

“Cam’s undergraduate and graduate scholarships through her Angus/Talon Youth Educational Learning Program Endowment Fund in the Angus Foundation have literally transformed the lives of the outstanding and deserving youth selected to be the recipients of her prestigious scholarships. A consummate visionary, Cam has a keen understanding and appreciation for the importance of investing today in the next generation who will be tomorrow’s leaders of our beef cattle and agricultural related industries, communities, schools, states and nation.  The Angus Foundation, Angus/Talon scholarship recipients, their families and those that follow in the years to come whose lives will forever be enriched by Cam’s selfless philanthropy, will always owe her a huge debt of gratitude.  She truly is an inspiration to all of us!”

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