|
|
|
|
The numbers and breeds of cattle have fluctuated as Miller Land and Livestock grew and split apart but the ranch has always stuck with the cows. A story is told of the ranch's founder, James Mickelson; when a neighboring rancher said he was thinking of investing in telephones, Mickelson the Dane said, “I tank I rather have the cattle.”
From Texas range cattle to English Herefords, to the present Black Ballies, the ranch has paid devoted attention to raising efficient and hardy cattle.
|
|
 |
 |
|
The Miller Ranch has a commercial herd, typically made up of 1100 lb. cows that raise 475 lb. calves. Presently the ranch runs around 1500 cows and calves and 1400 yearlings. The heifers and cows start calving around the first of April. The calves are branded in May. The cows are summered in the high country where the grass has a lot of bottom to it. In the winter, they are fed the ranch's wild hay.
After weaning, the calves are kept on the ranch through the winter on its hay and supplement. In the spring, they are driven to the desert and then to the good high summer pasture. In mid-October when they are generally shipped, the steers weight around 900 lbs. and the heifers around 800 lbs. |
|
Coming from Big Piney's high altitude and cold weather, at the feedlots these yearlings have a very low sickness and death loss. Millers do not give any hormones to their beef. The yearlings are highly sought after for their heartiness, quick gain and the fine way they finish. They are sold through private treaty only.
Beef is a very nutritious protein food. Taking care of cows is a big responsibility and a lot of hard work but it has kept the ranch prosperous since the 1800s.
|
|
 |
|
|
Additional Cattle Photos
click image to enlarge
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
|
|
