Distinctly Montana Magazine

43 w w w. d i s t i n c t l y m o n t a n a . c o m ing to optimal health, but it simultaneously nourishes the very land that sustains them," explains Morgan Conver. "It's an intricate process that facilitates soil rejuvenation: as the animals graze, they naturally fertilize the soils with their urine and ma- nure, and stimulate the land with their hooves. Part of this purpose- ful grazing technique also means keeping our animals moving up to four times per day to the next area of the ranch, allowing the pastures to rest at least a year before being grazed again, which stimulates prairie grass resurgence and, ulti- mately, creates a flourishing native ecosystem." The family truly sees the land as an intrinsic, essential component of their team, and using re- generative ranching methodologies allows them to contribute to a self-sustaining ecosystem where flora and fauna work, grow, and nourish together in lush, wild harmony. "As we worked to improve our soil health and plant nutrition, utilizing data analytics to closely analyze soil health, erosion patterns, and forage diver- sity, we came to appreciate the natural sys- tem through which both developed," shares Morgan. "That natural system runs from the soil to the plants to the an- imals to the ecosystem to people, and we found the best path to the highest quality meat was through having the healthiest and least stressed livestock grazing on the most diverse and nutrition-dense pastures." Animal welfare is another key fac- tor in their operation, and at Tangen Draw, animals are moved slowly and calmly, without sudden move- ments or loud noises. There's also a strict policy against the use of artificial additives, chemicals, or antibiotics—a commitment that shines through in the very flavor, taste, and nutrient profile of their meats. "What we are doing on the ranch ultimately af- The family truly sees the land AS AN INTRINSIC, ESSENTIAL COMPONENT OF THEIR TEAM... TANGEN DRAW

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