d feed that high-priced corn, marketing it on the hoof rather than sending it to town. It is a steady commitment, as these animals require our care in freezing cold, blazing sun, and everything in between. Fortunately, there are days when it all works, when there can be nothing better. Looking out at a peaceful grazing herd, watching a newborn calf get up and nurse, and seeing growing calves come to the bunk and eat somehow makes up for the days of snow, ice, mud, and hardship.
Our methods are more costly than those used by commercial feedlots. But we think the difference is worth it, both in terms of the quality of life we are able to deliver to our animals, and in terms of the quality of the meat that these animals provide for us. We take care of our cattle; they take care of us. It is that simple.