Beef Magazine

Spread the Word: “Ranchers Care”

Amanda Nolz February 16th, 2010

Raise your hand if you’re sick of snow, ice and cold? Combine that with responsibilities on the ranch, and it has been a very long winter. Winters on the ranch mean many different things: icicles hanging off the barn roof, snow piling up in the feed bunks, waterers freezing up, cows in constant need of more hay, bedding for the bulls, wet coveralls and gloves and, of course, hot chocolate after chores are done. Of all the memories that I have of winters on the ranch, the best ones are those spent with my dad, my hero, out doing chores. No matter what the weather, my dad is always there, sturdy and strong, unyielding in his determination to take care of his cattle.



My dad is much like other farm dads. He’s traditional in his methods. He loves nothing more than to watch his calves grow in the feed yards during the day and read over their performance numbers at night. And, as the oldest child, I have spent many days bonding in the tractor as we discuss cattle genetics and plans for the future. Yet, none of those things are why my dad is the best memory I have on the ranch. I know it may sound strange, but it really comes down to Dad and his whiskers.

Through the years, Dad’s whiskers have been a true indicator to how cold it is outside. For example, after a few hours out in the snow, Dad’s mustache always has icicles hanging from it. Because of the latest blizzard that hit South Dakota over the weekend, it dawned on me what a powerful message a rancher and his icy whiskers really is.

Being resilient in the elements is what farmers and ranchers are all about. Rain, sleet, snow or drought, producers always put their livestock first over their own comfort. Maybe that’s the message we need to start sending out to our customers in billboards across the country. Can you picture it? A whiskery rancher in coveralls and a big, wool cap, icicles hanging from his beard, a pen of bulls resting comfortably in freshly laid straw behind him, and the message that would be inscribed on the billboard would simply read, “Ranchers care.”

As winter continues to drag its cold, icy feet, let’s think positively and make it a priority to spread the simple, “Ranchers care,” message to the world. We can no longer continue to let political bureaucrats, the sensationalist media and special interest groups determine the direction that agriculture takes; it’s got to be up to us to set the story straight. And, as I work alongside my dad on the ranch, icy whiskers and all, I have realized that nothing will get the job done more efficiently than sharing our message: “We Care.”

BEEF Daily Quick Fact: 97% of farms in the United States are family owned and operated.

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7 Comments to “Spread the Word: “Ranchers Care””

1. Scott Reilly Says:
   

   February 16th, 2010 at 12:24 pm

   Great Article! I hope that this goes somewhere. I read your posts every all the time. Keep up the good work. Scott Reilly, Spalding, NE

1. Mrs. Mike Frieden Says:
   

   February 16th, 2010 at 2:05 pm

   Amanda,
   I always enjoy reading your posts, but this one was some of your best writing yet!
   I could definitely identify with the icy whiskers concept. When my husband and I were first married, we started raising cattle. That was almost 22 yrs. ago now, and back then, we didn’t have a tractor with a cab, so haying and feeding cows in sub-zero winter conditions did lead to some gnarly icicles in my husbands mustache, and my hair! But doesn’t that just show the care, concern, and committment that we give to our animals? Not only are we trying to protect our investments and realize the most profit by pampering our livestock, but when you pour your blood, sweat, tears, and finances into them, they do become a special part of your lives.
   I wish every member of PETA and HSUS were forced to read your column every day. Then maybe they would begin to see the personal side of what we farmers and ranchers do, and realize that we really do CARE for our livestock. Too bad that some have been made to make the whole look bad for our industry.
   Thank you so much for all that you do to advance the beef industry, and for adding that personal touch to your blogs. You have a God-given talent for writing…keep up the good work. And congratulations on your upcoming marriage!

1. Kristen Wingert Says:
   

   February 16th, 2010 at 3:10 pm

   What a creative article! I love the idea of that billboard! I can also relate to a hard working father, those days and nights reading over EPDS or sitting in the tractor!

   I also heard you did a wonderful job speaking in Fillmore County last night, you surely inspired some young people to become Minnesota Beef Ambassadors!

1. Marcia Callaway Says:
   

   February 16th, 2010 at 3:49 pm

   Amanda, You made me cry, again! We must get the message out that we truly do CARE for our livestock. Billboards sound great. Maybe NCBA or ANCW should consider as a BEEF promotional project.

   Our GA State Steer and Heifer show is this weekend in Perry, GA There will be thousands of caring students with their livestock projects. If only the media would take the time to interview 4-H and FFA students and visit the barn. Cattle are washed, blown dry, groomed extensively and then fed, watered and bedded before students eat breakfast. Many are up and in the barn by 5 a.m. What a statement!

   Yes, I agree Amanda, your article about your dad and the winter life on the farm, is exemplary of farmers and ranchers all across this land.

   Many thanks for sharing you gift of expression with us all. Marcia in GA

1. Blaine Says:
   

   February 17th, 2010 at 12:10 am

   Outstanding! Well done, Amanda.

1. Benita Wells Says:
   

   February 17th, 2010 at 7:30 am

   I agree with the concensus…I want to see that billboard! While we dont get as cold as the midwest, we do have our share of inclement weather, and it isnt easy to get livestock taken care of sometimes. But that part is done before we take care of ourselves. We understand what it takes…now we need to show the rest of the world what it takes!

   Amanda, I hope you know how lucky you are to have a Dad like yours!

1. Barbara Jacques Says:
   

   February 23rd, 2010 at 12:27 pm

   Great article! There are so many, many farmers and ranchers across the country who are sick and tired of this weather. Day after day, slipping and sliding through mud, snow, and ice in order to make sure all the animals are well fed and healthy. Hat’s off to all the men and women who are so dedicated and really DO CARE! Hang in there, spring will be here eventually! Love the billboard idea!

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