IntroductionWater management is crucial for the sustainability of ranching operations, especially in drier seasons. As climate patterns become increasingly erratic, ranchers need effective strategies to conserve water and ensure their…
The Role of the Butterfield Trail: Bringing Early Settlers and Mail Through Grant CountyThe Butterfield Trail, established in the 1850s, played a crucial role in the development of the Old…
Cooking Over a Bed of Coals for Consistent, Even HeatCooking over coals has been a fundamental ranch skill for centuries, utilized by cowboys and chefs alike to prepare hearty meals…
The Vaqueros: Early Spanish Cowboys Who Shaped Southwestern CultureThe vaqueros, the Spanish-speaking cowhands of the American Southwest, played a pivotal role in shaping the culture of the region, particularly during…
IntroductionTraining pack animals to tolerate being tied for extended periods is an essential skill for ranchers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This crucial ability allows animals, such as horses, mules,…
Mary E. Lease: Populist Speaker and Advocate for Farmers in the Old WestMary E. Lease was a prominent figure in the late 19th century, particularly known for her role as…
IntroductionIn ranching, neighboring relationships play a vital role in success and sustainability. One such essential skill is the ability to trade or borrow tools and supplies with nearby ranchers. This…
The Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness: Otherworldly Badlands with Unique Rock FormationsLocated in the high desert of northwestern New Mexico, the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness showcases a dramatic landscape of eroded formations often likened to…
Clearing Invasive Plants from Pastures to Promote Healthy GrazingEffective pasture management is crucial for ranching success, and one key skill that ranchers should master is clearing invasive plants. Invasive species…
The Importance of Fort Kearny in Protecting Westward Migrants in the Old WestDuring the early settlement period of the American West from 1800 to 1850, thousands embarked on the arduous…