Distinctly Montana Magazine

W W W. D I S T I N C T LY M O N TA NA . C O M 75 Polar temperatures, blinding snow, and instantaneous freezing are not simply inconveniences for Montana ranchers — they guarantee death for newborn calves left unprotected. While the styles and numbers of shelters available will vary between ranches, most area producers agree that having a dry space with wind protection is essential for newborn calves. Our operation utilizes a large coverall barn capable of holding approximately 100 cows, as well as a small adjacent heated barn to provide shelter for more high-risk cases. Because the large barn does not have the capacity to hold our entire herd, only those who are closest to giving birth and those with newborns can be accommodated. is requires us to remain especially vigilant in our monitoring of the herd in order to ensure no cow is left to give birth outside. With subzero temperatures also comes frozen water — the bane of many caretakers' existences. Repairing broken lines or fighting with malfunctioning stock water heaters can consume a significant portion of the day. ose who rely on ponds and reservoirs as water sources regularly have to cut or auger through thick ice multiple times per day in order to hydrate their livestock. FEEDING THE MASSES roughout the winter months, each cow needs to be provided with approximately 30 pounds of feed hay every 24 hours. In a single day, our ranch utilizes just less than three tons of forage. Depending on the size of the herd, it quickly becomes evident why so many layered stacks of bales dot the landscape throughout our state. Preferences for additional supplements and feedstuffs vary between producers, and each ranch's specific feeding program will determine the means by which food is dispensed to the herd. We choose to feed our cows a combination of forages in rows using a large tractor and bale scattering equipment. Conveniently, we are able to utilize the same equipment to cover the floor of our barn with straw bedding for added warmth and moisture absorption. Element Bozeman makes it easy to discover Main Street— just one block away—and its many restaurants and shops. Also nearby are Montana State University and the Museum of the Rockies. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is 10 miles away. www.ElementBozeman.com CONTINUED Old Red licks her newborn.

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