The kind of Montana sunset that reminds you why you do it — long days, dusty boots, and all. As fall fades and winter nears, there’s beauty in every ending.
It’s been a very busy fall so far at the Kimmel Ranch. With the turning of the season from summer to autumn, there’s “no rest for the weary,” as they say. Our crew has been trailing herds to new pastures ahead of weaning day in an attempt to utilize the new flush of fresh green grass that resulted from some highly unusual fall precipitation.
The first hard freeze last week halted forage growth and signaled the birds and wildlife to start their moves as well before winter hits. Rightfully so, as the weatherman is predicting snow in a few days, just in time for our once-a-year payday at the ranch when calves move on to their next home.
The change in the air spurs us to once again count our blessings. As stressful as ranch life can be, we feel fortunate to be chosen to steward God’s creation for another year.
A swirl of dust and sunlight as the crew sorts calves. It’s the season of long days and big payoffs on the ranchWhen the day’s work finally slows down, there’s no better feeling than resting in the prairie grass—dog, cowboy, and all. Fall work has a way of humbling even the toughest hands.The horse, the dog, and the hand—each with their own job to do, each with a bond built on trust and miles.Fresh grass, cool mornings, and cattle on the move. The kind of fall day that makes all the hard work worth iExperience, patience, and good stockmanship at work. Every gather tells a story of connection between man, horse, and cowThe calm before the day’s work begins. Cool air, soft light, and a loyal dog waiting for the next cue—just another morning on the prairieSlow and steady—one by one through the gate. Each cow accounted for, each day bringing us closer to winter
4/19/23 by Tricia Kimmel PJ and I feel privileged to introduce you to the newest member of our team! Meet Cora Knowles, who is joining us as our Executive Assistant. Cora has a passion for agriculture and conservation, and she will be partnering with us to move all our different enterprises to the next level!…
Rain Montana’s weather is notorious for making the news, and this Flag Day has been no exception. With her vast array of geography, what happens in one region of Montana can greatly affect what happens in another, like how mountain runoff can flood the lower river basins as it has this past week. Our thoughts…
A long-awaited, “Hey, there,” to all of our friends and customers! It’s been a hot minute since we’ve reached out, but rest assured this bunch of cowboys and cowgirls are still here at the ranch, doing what we do. (Well, except for Shane, who is off gleaning what knowledge he’s able to absorb at college…
By Tricia Kimmel Kimmel Ranch and a neighboring operation, the Louie Petrie Ranch, were recently asked by Ranchers Stewardship Alliance based at Malta, Montana to host an on-site tour showcasing some of the changes and practices we implement here on the prairies of the Big Flat. We were blown away by the interest and attendance…
Hello, Friends! We’re guessing you might be ready for a little respite from summer’s chaos, depending on where you live and the kind of career and lifestyle you enjoy. Many in agriculture are certainly ready for a bit of a breather right now. In our region of the US, our farmer neighbors are wrapping up…
(Photos follow at the bottom of the page.) “I’m in love with Montana. For other states I have admiration, respect, recognition, even some affection. But with Montana it is love. And it’s difficult to analyze love when you’re in it.” ~John Steinbeck As we have officially landed back home after the last leg of our…