How Ranchers Make Money
2022 ж. 3 Қыр.
745 251 Рет қаралды
Ever wonder how ranchers like John Dutton in Yellowstone make money? Well, wonder no longer.
Today, we are going to learn how ranchers make money, and how to get started ranching yourself.
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You know what they say.... Behind every good rancher\farmer is a wife with a job in town.
In my case I hope not, towns are filled with the most wicked twisted people I like to stay away from them.
Yeah, I don't know anyone who says that.
Sounds like a rancher/farmer who doesn’t have any business being a rancher/farmer to me. Also, no one says that
And also the government helps farmers and cattlemen out very good with their taxes. They forget to tell you that, but I know rancher and he makes damn good money but here again it is hard work yes but he has a crew of guys to come and help them every year, and when One leaves, he replaces them if there was no money to be made in ranching of any kind you men wouldn’t do it simple as that you got nice trucks nice equipment nice homes you’re taken care of by the government. Don’t forget to add that.
@@nancysimpson4246so true
I ranch in Missouri and you were pretty accurate on the profit/loss statement. It’s a damn shame the US has allowed the packers to screw ranchers out of making a decent income. A young person trying to get into this business cannot purchase land at current prices. This will choke out this lifestyle quickly.
For years now the government has been trying to cut out the rancher. If they can monopolize the system and install government officials as the owners and the ranchers are employees, the everyday person relying on beef can be ignored and each lot of land can be sold to developers.
How do the packers screw the ranchers?
@@seraph4925 thx for the info. There has to be a way to make good money at this.
Yup. My wife and I realized, through my graudate education, that you have to have one of two things to make it as a rancher. 1) be independently wealthy, or.... 2) stand in place to inherit an operation....I am neither, so I threw in the towel after 20 years of horse training and running cattle. Beign a feedlot manager was not my goal or my dream LOL
I agree wallstreet I think manipulates the stock market to drive ranchers out of business, then swoop in and buy up all the family farms, putting decent hard working ranchers out of business
I run cattle in Mississippi. Always wanted to uproot and move to one of the western states to establish my ranch out there. However the fact that I can run 120 head on 250 acres here as opposed to 200 on 4000 acres there, it is hard to justify such a move.
I had friend that said the same as you. I asked him if he liked building fence.
@@arnoldjohnson3317 Not really that much fence building. I’d still love to make the move, but the financial end of it pretty much kills the idea.
@@joelbecker7690 Maybe but moving from 5 a per cow to 14 a is lot more to maintain to run the cows. The best one is my neighbor complained about dry weather for years, he finally sold out and moved to where it rains more. To this day he is happy he did. Almost the reverse but he bought the same amount of land. Then there was not a great difference land prices.?
Ya I was shocked it takes that much land per cow up there.
Stay as far away from the west as you can. Trust me.
Another fantastic video Trinity and a view into a world most of us don’t have a clue about but rely on to survive.
You said so much truth in that one comment! Thanks so much Peter!
Peter you are awesome and I love your channel one day if either of you come near elbe Washington let me know ill take yall out horseback riding in the PNW
@@LifeintheWest how do you raise calves with the "pasture" you've got and lack of natural shelter to help with weather conditions, im from kentucky and we judge 2 acres per cow, the amount of manual labor must be rather high at 20 acres per cowand i cant imagine the labor costs taking care of 4000 acres of cattle spread out over 20 acres per cow, but im a very small farmer with no debt do to generational land, just 65 acres with 25 cow and 1 bull being optimal per acreage, but profit on that averages around 10k a year, but work part time as well, mainly do out of habit and tax and zoning incentives
Hey Peter, I've seen some your videos based in "The West". They're all excellent and you yourself have done a great job at allowing ordinary fold like me to see what life is like on a ranch or in a small western town. Good to see you enjoy watching vids, as well as making them.
@@hayseedfarmboy yeah but your beef meat doesn't taste as good as the meat in Montana & me being in Kentucky I've quit eating beef because of that....
As someone from Tennessee, I always loved the prospect of owning a ranch and raising cattle. My father comes from Montana and gave me the Western side of life. Now I'm older and getting out of the Marine Corps, I am looking foward to seeing where life takes me. This video was very informative about the actual economics behind ranching in a very simple laid out way.
Hello 👋 how are you doing today?
Tennessee is actually good land to do a small start cattle operation. There are many areas where the land is cost effective.
Why so you can Murder Them and call Them food. Ugh
@@Love-os9se They are oh so yummy and oh so healthy! Why you trying to start conflict on a year old comment thread anyway? Go eat some tofu and artificial meat, and enjoy your premature health issues x
The one thing I wanted to do after I retired from the military was go home (Kansas) and farm/ranch. My grandfather-in-law was a very successful farmer/rancher; he grew crops and ran cattle. His advice to me was "don't". My wife, growing up a farmer/ranchers granddaughter, said she would not be a farmers wife. Regardless of the amount of money to be made or not to be made I still want to do it. In college I had to create a business plan and chose farming, in my research I was disheartened to learn the decline of the number of farms in America from the 30's, 40's & 50's until now (at that time 2016). I will support American farmers until the day I die. If that means paying more for their beef or pork, so be it. Buying and paying more for what produce or or products I can from them, so be it. There is no one more important than the American farmer!
Here here. Unfortunately China has been rapidly buying up ranch & farm land in America & elsewhere. They own vast amounts in Texas and the Dakota's. Last year alone they I creased their ranch/farmland holdings by 1000%. We need to stop selling our land to China. A lot of the high density housing going up around America has ownership ties to China as well. Same with a growing number of hotels in America.
Amen to that !! Very well said!!
@@ActinOut China is just problem after problem
💯🤠
@@ActinOut CCP and Bill Gates are top enemies of the people when it comes to our health and freedom.
Thanks for such an interesting and thoughtful video. I didn’t read every comment so I apologize if this is a repeat, but 30% of 200 is 60. That leaves 140 cows left resulting in much less income. You said they would have 170 to sell, which is 15%. So that number throws the whole rest of the equation off. Just an FYI for anybody who really needs to know the answer. I’m not a rancher!
i randomly bumped into this channel. as a city boy, my respect to the people who work the earth, for a living and as a lifestyle. your videos are super informative and direct. thank you 🙏!
City Boy, CITY BOY!!!
Grew up on a dairy farm. This makes me want to be a rancher. The working relationships you have with your horses and dogs is amazing.
Dairy cows milked 2x away 7 days a week.Seems like morning milking is over then back to it.I owned 2 dairy farms an had 3 kids,none wanted to farm,dairy or otherwise. I retired. Yes I miss the cows
@@michaelcorning4857 I was curious about the price of milk 50 years ago and googled the prices by year 1970=$1.32 per gallon, 1972=.50cents per gallon and I'm confused were subsidies the reasons? Or did I get wrong information. I can see how farmers and ranchers have been driven out of business over the years. Just figure in the cost of inflation over the years. 🙁
How does it change if you're using leased government land
Bought a 20 acre property that came with 5 cows. The neighbor's bull got loose and got one of our young heifers pregnant. When she calved she needed help and my husband and I had no idea what to do. Calf didn't make it, but the momma did. We were traumatized after that and sold the herd before any more harm could come to the remaining cows. It's been 5 years since and we're now thinking about getting a few for the pasture after YEARS of research. Raising cattle is definitely not for the faint of heart. Full respect for what you do!!!
This might be my favorite episode. Thank you for what you and others like you do! I appreciate it, even if that doesn’t matter.
Thank you for what you and others like you do so I don't have to raise my own meat. Lord KNOWS I'm too old and unhealthy to even contemplate trying something like that so I'll ALWAYS have your back and support you. Notwithstanding the fact I LOVE eating beef when I can afford to these days. (Like tonight when I take my Sweetie out to a nice BBQ dinner.) 😁 God Bless you and all you do.
Found your channel by chance and glad I did. I'm too old to ranch but it's something I always wanted to do. I understand the logistics and finance situations involved in ranching. I moved out West over a decade ago after growing up in NYC. Well, I had my horse, chickens, etc. and love it. You can't pick where you are born and raised but my little taste of "ranching" (I call it that, lol), makes me glad my son is growing up in this environment. Thanks for giving people a glimpse into some of the realities of ranching. That's not even considering being your own vet a good part of the time and tending to the animals daily requirements and battling the elements when you'd rather stay in bed. Thanks for what you do and God bless you and yours. Liked and subbed. 🙏👍
Trinity. Just read the comments. Think it's awesome you are reaching so many people and teaching them about ranching. And they like it!!!! Keep it coming. Miss you and your family.
Trinity I really enjoy your channel. I like the way you break things down to really understand what ranchers make. Your quite the natural at this 👍
Outstanding Presentation, giving people like me who live on the coast and enjoy eating beef, just a hint at the amazing amount of work, planning and grit it takes to be a cattle rancher. God bless you!
I learned the hard realities of ranching / farming, great lessons to be learned, but hard way to make a living when you have to purchase everything. So I have a greater appreciation for our ranchers / farmers across this great country. Great life but not always easy! God Bless these families!!!!!
Thank you so much! I have zero idea about ranchers and the ins and outs of true workings of them. Been on few horses and around bunch dairy cows in PA. Outside of that... Nada. You are doing good work and making real-life educational videos too. Don't stop. I applaud you and your family and everyone who does this everyday.
This was a really good talk and lesson in a way Trinity, because you scrape off the glitz that people can have from the media and films to know what real living and hard work is like. I am seeing some more creative ways for ranchers to sell their beef cropping up, straight to the public now, but I truly enjoyed this video and I'll share it with those I know who've been thinking about ranching on their own. GOD BLESS YOU TOO ☝️✝️🌄
Another great video Trinity. I grew up in the operation of a farm equipment business that my dad started back in about '55. I saw for the better part of 30 years the hardships of the agricultural world whether it be crop growers or livestock growers. Hardest working, far too often most under appreciated professions in our country. God Bless you in these endeavors Sir.
Great videos, I am enjoying your articulate discussions and all the activities, including the farmer flag tire while trailering out to move cows. You, sir, are a natural educator. Thanks for the much needed dose of reality.
Dude from the suburb here. Algorithm fed me your channel. So happy I found it, I just want to say to you and all the ranchers. Thank you! All that grueling work, for little pay for your family. It seems like a thankless job. I had no idea of the logistics that went into every day ranching, this is eye opening. Wow.
I really appreciated you running the numbers for us, your thoroughness, and especially for talking gross vs net 🙏
As a guy who lives in the city, this was very illuminating for me. I love beef and thank you for all your hard work. God Bless.
I just bought a house in Billings. I'm hoping to maybe try to volunteer some time now and again if a rancher would have me. These people are responsible for feeding us all. That should NEVER be forgotten. Besides I would love to spend some time and see what it's really like to live that way. I really like your channel. Came here by way of Peter Santenello. Thanks for sharing all this content. It's fascinating to me.
These vlog like longer videos are defiantly the way to go. I far prefer these videos over the shorts. This video and the 10 hours in a saddle video got you my sub, that's for sure.
Well thank you. I am attempting to make a longer one every Sunday.
me too
Thank you for making us aware of where our food comes from. It comes from so many factors and a lot of hard work!
Thanks for your interesting video. It is great to see how ranching compares to farming here in the UK. Farms here are a lot smaller but to survive they have to diversify. There is a dairy farm about 10 miles from my home who have diversified, they sell milk direct, they make ice cream and they make salt using brine that they get from the local spa town. Farming is a tricky business, rewarding in some ways but not in others.
It sure is tricky!! Diversification is really the only way to make it work. Thanks for your input!
As a "town kid" right in the middle of ranch and farm country, I am always interested in learning how those operations work. I am delighted to be a subscriber and learning something new all the time. All the best to all of you. Thank you for creating this content!
If you’re right in the middle of a ranch and farm country get out to those people who ranch and farm as quick as possible. You’ll learn a lot helping them.
They could use the help and if you’re interested enough you would be good help. Good luck out there.
God bless 🙏 you Trinity and all the ranchers producing our food!
Caught my attention with the short reels now I’m really into the long form videos! Love it man
Man this was awesome! I've seen a few of your video shorts on Facebook. Being from Texas I've lived in ranch country and here in town, so its always been a wonder how ranch life is like. This was super informative into ya'lls life! Thanks bud!
Great video, shows the nuts and bolts! Add the cost of tractors, cattle trailers, hay vans, welders etc and it’s a daunting task! I was raised on a 400 head cow/calf ranch in Southern Arizona. Thought I would stay on the ranch with my dad when I was in high school. He told me that the ranch couldn’t support 2 families, that I better figure out another occupation and then ranch later when able. That advice served my well. Sad that I can’t ranch full time because it’s the way of life I love, but thankfully, I’m doing the next best thing (equine vet that ranches)!
You can come to Kenya, we will ranch on my father's land. There's sufficient land.
@@Being_BruceHello from Kansas USA
Vets make far more than almost any farmer, good choice. The only way Id get back into ranching would be to do all free range, no feedlot finishing, all grass fed for life. Those sell for 2-3x. Gotta have water and access to grazing lands.
Great video. Nothing but respect for ranchers. It's a hard life.
This was sobering and gives me a much deeper appreciation for where my meat is coming from. Thank you for setting the record straight.
Awesome video!! My grandpa did this until his last days. Loved visiting and going out on the field with him
being from the country and raised on a ranch/farm even with your breakdown you'd be surprised how many people just don't get it and will still complain and say ranchers / farmers are filthy rich. Another point is ,and you may have spoke it and I missed it, but say an avg joe works 40 hours a week and makes x$ an hour a rancher/ farmer is on the job 24/7 and absolutely needs to work 3 times more for their $ x an hour for the 43 g in this scenario
I did not mention that, but I figured out my hourly wage at age 25 and it was around $2.00/hr. 😄
@@LifeintheWest “Ranchers don’t do it for the money, they do it because they love it and wouldn’t give it up for anything” Not many would or could do it. Its a very simple life. My aunt and uncle cowboy’d for other ranchers 50 yrs ago. Don’t remember any new vehicles back then. All done on horseback. Only time I saw semi trucks were to pick up the calves brought down to corral by cabin. Then 2 weeks of mothers bawling for their calves after. I remember cattle drive bringing them down from winter pasture to summer pasture. What a looong day riding even for an 11 yr old kid who loved it. Seems a lot has changed - lot stayed the same. Remember my aunt and I riding 31 miles from one ranch to another to help bring down the strays, up in mountains. We didnt use horse trailers back then. Had good visit - meals while horses rested up and then went up looking for strays. Only wood-cook stoves and lanterns back then. No electricity. It was fun!! I was a kid tho. My aunt was cooking after long rides- uncle tending to horses.and dogs. That was 50 yrs ago. I subscribed for the memories. They were Rockie Mountain folks too. Thanks. Sure do miss spring water and the high country beauty!
You make valid points. Despite the breakdown of expenses and income, many people still have misconceptions about ranchers and farmers being wealthy. It can be frustrating when others fail to understand the hard work, dedication, and long hours that go into this profession. Additionally, you're correct that ranchers and farmers often work far more than the average Joe. They don't just work 40 hours a week; their job is 24/7. This constant commitment and the need to work three times more for the same hourly wage can make their income seem less impressive when compared to someone with a regular 9-to-5 job. Thank you for highlighting these aspects and shedding light on the realities faced by those in the ranching and farming industry.
Very similar to being an owner operator in the trucking industry. Thanks for the great video. With big checks come big bills.
I can't even imagine how big 4000 acres is! I just found your channel a few weeks ago, enjoying the content!
Love how your working while your explaining. Never a day of inn the cattle business. I use to milk on dairy and you couldn't miss a day! Love the farm life.
This was really eye opening ! Tough life but an awesome life !
I just started farming I got a jersey nurse cow she raised 10 calfs this year . She had a heifer and I bought 3 hoilstien Angus crosses for the first set then 3 more 2 more times from a dairy 2 weeks old for 125 bucks each. I ween at 4 months then get a another set. I spend a little on grain and cut my own hay . I sold the first 3 for 1.55 a pound at 700 pounds. The second set I got 1.47 a pound at around 650 pounds. The third set 1.45 a pound at 650 also. I did pretty good this year for my first year raising a few feeder steers. Next year I will have 2 nurse cows and I'm going to buy 1 or 2 more nurse cows. The jersey milk gets them big quickly 15 percent butter fat . Love how you break it down. I think with my model I can make alot more money than regular beef cows it's just more work milking.
Thank you Soooo much! I dream of rearing cattle and sometimes have wondered about ranching. But I had no one to ask about it. Your video was awesome in helping me to understand how much work gies into it and what assets are needed. Thank you for letting me take a look into the life of a rancher.
You're very welcome! I'm glad to hear that the video gave you insight into the life of a rancher and helped you understand the amount of work and assets involved in cattle rearing. It's always important to have a realistic understanding of what you're getting into before pursuing your dreams.
This is an excellent channel. Trinity, You explain everything perfectly,.. I can’t believe you don’t have more subscribers…
Very good info to put out there. We rent on a 4,000 acre ranch and they have about 120 pairs with alfalfa fields. They are very good with expenses and budget or else they wouldn't survive - it's still in the original homesteading family. So many people are surprised at how much land is needed for cattle out here. And near Billings, water can be an issue too. Our other neighbors have Peruvians on a work visa for their sheep ranch. Other than that, I don't know anyone who hires help full time. Oh and this is also why ranchers never get rid of anything! They might need it someday.
You Sir have an amazing channel!! Thank you for educating people, it’s important and you found a way to do just that. You have a talent here! Appreciate your videos and time it takes.. and the meat! lol 😂
LOVE your channeel!! My parent's ranched , then moved to Tennessee to become Dr's since they already knew those chores!! 🐎🐎🐎🐎🐎🐎🐎🐎🐎
Awesome video Trinity I just like to hear about ranch family and how they got started so interesting can’t wait for part 2👍
Great video Trinity! I grew up on a ranch in Utah. When I was 12, my dad got a finance degree, sold the farm and we moved. I look back on those days with pride. I compare the childhood I had vs the one my daughters are having now. My childhood was so much better. More fulfilling. Its not just ranch work, its a way of life and it needs more respect than it is given, especially lately. My life in software development is empty and has no honor in it. Much respect and honor for you Trinity!
Thank you for your kind words and sharing your personal story, it sounds like you had a fulfilling and meaningful childhood growing up on a ranch. I can understand how you may feel a sense of nostalgia and a longing for that way of life. It's important to find purpose and fulfillment in whatever path we choose, and I'm glad to hear that you have found respect for the ranching way of life. While software development may feel different from the ranching lifestyle, it can also have its own merits and bring value to others in different ways. Every profession has its unique contributions and impact, and finding honor and respect in what you do can come from the positive outcomes you create through your work. Remember to embrace the present and find joy in the current stage of your life as well. Thank you again for your kind words, and I wish you all the best in your journey!
Yikes! Had no idea how expensive ranching is. Thanks for doing what you do!!!!
Thanks but I am one that is making money outside of Ranching so I can get back into it. 😁
God Bless you Trinity and family! 🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸
Looking forward to upcoming videos! Educating, well explained.
I'm not sure if I heard it right or not. I thought you said 30% of 200 and you said 170, My math came up with 30% x 2 = 60. That cut the numbers to 140 which if I'm right would put a families salary at much less. Sorry if I heard it wrong. Thanks though. A very informative video.
You are correct
Love how you explained and brought the structure and intent of all of this together. So what was your reason for ranching?
I like Ag videos eventhough I've never been on a farm or ranch. You have a great speaking style and provide a real education about the cost and operation of a ranch. You probably already know that you in Ag are a USA national asset. We need you guys. Thank you for your work. God bless you, your family, and ranch. Best wishes Doug Roberts
And maybe he'll save the state of Montana from the oligards.... although Ted Turner's still selling buffalo meat at Ted's Montana bar in Lexington Kentucky
Great video. Most people have absolutely no idea what it takes to get that steak. Every step of the process costs money. Thanks for showing us what that first step looks like.
Excellent video! I'm a software dev and my plan is use that income to get into hay farming. Was raised on a farm, loved it, miss it terrible. The cattle rancher here that I know waved me off the ranching idea many times. Didn't watch Yellowstone btw: too much negative drama sours me on humanity.
Thanks for your videos . Most people have no idea the hard 24/7 work Ranchers do to get the food it to their tables .
That is the truth!!
Great breakdown! Your detailed explanation sheds light on the challenges and realities of ranching. Kudos for bringing awareness to this way of life. Keep up the informative content!
Never knew anything about ranching. Thanks for the info. God bless you!
If you have 200 cows and save 30% of them, that means you have 140 to sell
50% of the calf crop on average is female and you pull 30% of that for your replacements. That how there are 170 calves to sell at the end of the year as 100% of bull/steer calves and 70% of heifer calves go to the salebarn.
I appreciate the breakdown. I grew up on a farm and around farms and it just never looked like a really profitable business, mostly because I didn’t have the startup capital to buy a farm, equipment and livestock. I always wanted to know the actual numbers and I appreciate your hypothetical. I’m past the age of being able to do anything but it’s nice to know. I’m interested in your Farm King app if you want to let me know when it’s ready.
Thank you for your interest in the Farm King app! It's always great to connect with someone who shares a background and curiosity in farming.
Such a great video not boring at all you kept it interesting for sure keep the videos comin!
Such an informative video, I'm now a subscriber and looking forward to future videos, thanks for posting.
Many thanks! Fascinating slice of Americana. And who knew a rough and tumble rancher could be so friendly and well spoken. I confess to holding in mind a stereotype of a rancher being an unwelcoming, stand offish, posse comitatus belonging grump. I’m going to learn a lot from your channel. Thanks again
Great explanation about the real thing! Although farming over here (Belgium, Europe) becomes more and more suïcide...I don't know about you guys over there, but here farmers have to invest abnormal figures to all sorts of things in order to answer the invirioment rules including the climat regulations... So young farmers often are quiting or do not starting anymore in the first place...Sad indeed... ? Thanks for sharing and wish you all the luck in your beautiful job / way of livin !!!👍🇧🇪 (sorry if my English sucks a little bit...😉)
Tks for what y'all do, so glad I found your channel, Montana , is beautiful
Fascinating and so educational. Thank you! I've always wondered...
Fun fact: in 2023 Minnesota had more cattle than Montana. I grew up in West Central Minnesota on a farm with dairy cattle, steers, goats, and horses. We had about 100 head of cattle on over 100 acres of rotational grazing land and had a couple of hundred additional acres for silage, hay, and cash crops. With our irrigation system our stocking rate was about two acres/cow. I’d love to get back into cattle but I’m fresh out of undergrad (in part time grad school) and buying a good chunk of land in North Dakota is tough to find for under half a million dollars. My current job grosses 70k, but still makes it hard to save any serious cash (as in over $100,000 for a down payment). I could buy some cheap, semi-forested land in Central Minnesota for quite cheap but I’ve come to enjoy the open air of the Great Plains. It’s tough to get into ranching without saving cash for 10-20 years. P.s., have you ever read “Cattle Raising on the Plains of North America”? It’s a great read. I found it interesting how most of the cattle in the Dakotas and Montana were brought in from Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa, while places like Colorado and Wyoming got their cattle from Texas.
That's a fascinating fun fact about the cattle population in Minnesota and Montana in 2023! It's impressive to hear about your experience growing up on a farm with various livestock and a large grazing area. It sounds like you have a deep passion for cattle farming. I understand that acquiring a significant amount of land in North Dakota can be challenging and costly. It's unfortunate that your current job doesn't allow you to save much for a down payment. However, it's great to hear that you have considered alternative options like purchasing cheap land in Central Minnesota or exploring other opportunities. I haven't personally read "Cattle Raising on the Plains of North America," but it sounds like a fantastic read. It's interesting to hear about the historical origins of cattle populations in different regions. The migration of cattle from Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa to the Dakotas and Montana, as well as cattle coming from Texas to Colorado and Wyoming, showcases the dynamic nature of the cattle industry. Hopefully, you will find a way to pursue your dream of getting back into cattle ranching. With determination and proper planning, saving enough funds to start your own operation might become more realistic over time.
I’m from the northeast where diary is huge here in certain areas. The barriers and challenges are both similar with weather and different as far as land. However, the most successful farms I know- have diversified the snot out of their farms. They’ve had to. Some have added seasonal attractions like orchards, pumpkin patches, and fall hayrides to selling honey, eggs, vegetables, soap, trinkets, etc… just to be able to continue supporting their diary. Organic farms are far smaller and cost so much more to run (which reflects in their prices) but it’s given them a little bit of footing with niche purchasers and contracts. A lot of poultry farms also have been struggling lately with the increased feed and energy/gas costs. It’s scary because without these farms… we don’t have food. My mother keeps a flock of about 2000 chickens, geese, and duck that she rotates and harvested every other year. Spring is busy with babies and poor weather so that adds to heating and energy cost to prevent the water from freezing and keep the babies warm so they don’t die (and even still- it’s not uncommon for significant mortality rates amongst chicks). There are groups that exchange roos (roosters) and prize heritage hens but they can be hard to get into because everybody is so concerned with that forever chemical finding it’s way onto their farms. (Also a problem with goats- from tainted hay in some areas). None of this takes into account regulations, zoning, neighbors, dues fees for group memberships, testing, veterinary care, taxes- which are different than out there. Keeping food on peoples plates is tough work and thankless. Thank you for giving a good idea of how things work out there. I’ve always been curious.
Love your videos. Never found any with this much info. Thank you.
This is great insight. I've been wanting to move to the middle of nowhere, eg., Montana, Colorado, etc., but all the properties are many millions of dollars and I know nothing about farming, raising crops, cattle, etc. Closest I got was as a kid my parents bred horses. I remember it being a lot of work and expensive but that's about it.
This is a great channel, keep up the great work! I've been delving into the ranching world through your channel and general research. I've heard multiple times about the Big 4 packers that have a monopoly on meat packing. If that monopoly's power were to be diminished, would ranchers get better pricing power and thus better incomes? You mentioned the $1.83/lb figure that ranchers get at auction today. I pay well over $5/lb for ground beef at the grocery store. Someone's making a good living from the ranchers' work!
Ding we have a winner give that guy a star but the story gets better he is selling feeder steers market steers bring even less per pound. but since they weight more they are still worth more. but that burger could be an old cow who was ground into burger and costs $.80 cents a pound. a person could write a book on what the packers do to pad their bottom line. Now for my soap box: There is a bill being pushed by Senator Grassley of Iowa to force some transparency and boost competition in the beef industry, call your rep and senators and ask them to support. It wont fix all the problems but it will help End soap box:
The issue of concentration and market power among meat packers, often referred to as the "Big 4," is indeed a concern for many ranchers. These four companies control a significant portion of the meat packing industry in the United States, giving them substantial market influence. If the market power of these packers were diminished, it could potentially benefit ranchers in terms of pricing power. With fewer dominant players in the market, competition may increase, leading to more favorable prices for ranchers' livestock. The figure I mentioned, $1.83/lb, is an average price that ranchers receive at livestock auctions. This price reflects various factors such as supply and demand dynamics, production costs, and market conditions. However, it's important to note that this price is for live animals, not processed meat products like ground beef. The price you pay for ground beef at the grocery store includes not only the cost of raising and processing the cattle but also expenses associated with distribution, marketing, packaging, and overhead costs for the retailer. It's a complex supply chain, and each stakeholder along the way takes their share of the final price. While it is true that someone profits from the ranchers' work, it's not necessarily accurate to assume that all the extra profit is being captured by the meat packers alone. There are other players in the supply chain, and the final price you pay at the grocery store reflects the overall costs and margins throughout the process. Addressing the concentration of market power in the meat packing industry is a complex issue that involves various economic, regulatory, and political considerations. It is a topic of ongoing discussion and debate within the agricultural community and among policymakers. Thank you for your question, and I hope this provides some insight into the dynamics of the ranching and meat packing industries.
Great video, and great info for those of us trying to come to grips with how all the aspects of ranching work together. And I'll admit it's a bit grim! You didn't even add in startup costs like a reliable tractor, haying gear if you make your own hay, stock trailers, initial purchase of horses and/or ATVs, etc. Saying starting a ranch is daunting is a gross understatement! So thanks as always to all the ranchers like yourself who keep it going. God bless! I did notice one thing to clarify (hopefully someone hasn't mentioned already). At the 9:08 min mark, you state "If you have 200 cows, and you save 30 percent of them, that means you have 170 to sell." I don't believe that 170 is correct. 200 cows x 0.3 = 60 cows saved, meaning you only have 140 to sell, unless I misunderstood something of course. I'm guessing you meant save 30 of them, not 30 percent of them. Doesn't change any of the message of the video, but if you did mean 30%, that would mean even less profit in your calculations! Yikes.
And he didn’t calculate losses-a ranch can easily see 4% loss of calves due to sickness and accidents, even more on a bad year.
Really cool video never thought of how hard ranching is.
Seeing these numbers is a huge help. I’ve been wanting to start a horse “ranch” (breeding, training, and selling) as a side business (so that I dont rely on horse sales as my main income) here in Alabama and while things are definitely cheaper here, its still not ideal with all the expenses there are. Thanks for breaking things out so I can better plan for my own ranch!
You're welcome! Starting a horse ranch can definitely be a rewarding endeavor, but it's important to carefully plan and budget for all the expenses involved. By breaking down the costs, you can have a clearer understanding of what to expect and how to financially prepare for your side business. Good luck with your future horse ranch in Alabama!
Truly an excellent video. God bless you for all that you do. I actually come from a ranching family but didn't have the opportunity to continue the legacy as many siblings and grandchildren were lined up to take the reins... I was praying you might have the almighty answers of how to get into ranching as the cost of land has been insane and the numbers don't really work out... 432K in annual payments is no where near the 177K gross - adding hay production and the costs associated with such doesn't add enough value either... (insert sad face here) At near 60 now, time is something I don't have in vast supply as the billionaires of the world keep buying up every piece of property available. Ranching just might be a dying industry for the hardworking.
Ask yourself how that is possible.,..432k in payments with 177k gross….hint:its not…thats because they are grossing more than that, and the taxpayer makes up the difference..
Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your story. I understand your concerns about the costs associated with getting into ranching, especially in the face of rising land prices. It can definitely be challenging to make the numbers work and remain profitable. While I don't have all the answers, I can offer a few suggestions: 1. Consider alternative options: Look into leasing land instead of purchasing it. This can help lower the upfront costs and allow you to still engage in ranching activities. 2. Start small: Begin with a smaller operation and gradually expand as profits increase. This can help you mitigate financial risks and give you time to learn and adapt to the industry. 3. Explore niche markets: Diversify your ranching activities and focus on niche markets, such as organic produce, specialty meats, or agritourism. These avenues often command higher prices and can help improve profitability. 4. Seek financial assistance: Investigate government programs or grants aimed at supporting agriculture. These resources may provide financial aid or technical assistance to help you establish or expand your ranching operation. 5. Collaborate with other ranchers: Consider forming partnerships or cooperatives with other ranchers in your area. Sharing resources and knowledge can help reduce costs and increase efficiency. While it may seem daunting, it's important to remember that the ranching industry has overcome challenges throughout its history. The passion and dedication of hardworking ranchers like yourself continue to keep the industry alive. Don't lose hope, and keep exploring different avenues to pursue your ranching dreams.
It's like that old joke about the rancher who won the lottery and they asked him what he was going to do with all that money, and he said "I don't know how to do anything else so I guess I'll just keep ranching until it's all gone". I really think diversification is the only answer, anything and everything you can to make a buck from having pay to play hunters on your place if you have good hunting, to selling gravel if you have good gravel anywhere on your property to trying different types of livestock, selling hay if you can etc. I know for one of the family ranches in my brand district they built a butcher shop on their place and got state certified as a meat processor and are doing their herd from calves all the way to the final frozen package of beef that gets sold to the consumer. So far that seems to be working surprisingly well for them but man oh man is that a LOT of work! I also don't think it would scale well to larger outfits but for small to mid-size ranches it seems to be working pretty well to go this route.
Definitely agree that diversification is where its at. Convincing ranchers and farmer that now they have to do 6 things rather than 2 is an uphill battle. Some of them will and some will starve out. Just the way markets work.
Most ranchers I know of take part time jobs in the city-their version of diversification!
Really like your video work. You should know the ranching life up here in Alberta Canada is the same thing as across the line. This way of life bonds all of us regardless of the border. That's what is so incredible about ranch life. Keep up the shows. Best regards.
this is absolutely fascinating, thank you for sharing!! 🙏💗
My oldest cousin loved Farm life, he said the farmers could never afford to keep him on. Sadly, he had to go to the city and get a Maintenance job, he came down with leukemia and passed away 3.5 years ago at the age of 58. Gary may you rest in peace.
I'm really sorry to hear about the loss of your cousin, Gary. It sounds like he had a deep passion for farm life, but unfortunately, circumstances led him to a maintenance job in the city. It's heartbreaking to hear that he battled leukemia and ultimately passed away at a relatively young age. May Gary rest in peace, and may you find comfort in the memories you shared.
love the channel. we are in western montana running a small farm. do you see a plan to help younger folks get into ranching through mentorships? the price to get started is huge. most ranchers I see out here are 60yo to 80yo... keep up the great work brother
Thank you. Mentorships are tough because some has to basically “sell” their land in the end for far less than it’s worth. Heirs, even those that don’t want to keep ranching, are not ok with that.
@@LifeintheWest good point. I'm going to keep thinking about it. if your ever out west of missoula let's have a beer and talk shop
Watched this site a few times, but this one was a eye opener!! Great presentation!! I make ear tags for cattle!! LOL, always wondered what it must be like on a ranch!! Thanks!!
This was very informative. Thanks for putting it up.
It really impossible to get into ranching unless you were born into it, or are rich. I worked as a ranch hand on various ranches thinking someday I might be able to buy my own, but that's just not possible unless I get rich doing something else.
Well said...but remember there are ranchers that are getting old, like me, my son is a $185k programmer...he never changed a tire and is not strong enough to break over lug nuts, have no other sons or daughters that want involvement. We farmers and ranchers are seeking the next motivated trustful young men with young families to set-up their home on our farms to work the cattle, feed and fencing in exchange for partial profits and when we die partial land exchanging hands. I'd like to remain in cattle into my 80's 90's but i won't be able to do the work. I can't find anyone like me to replace me....you have to find the hardworking young men that loves cattle, cares for cattle and has a passion for it. Oh, and loves the Divine nature of LAND....treats the land nice and cares of it...no litter! Hate horse lovers...they litter! Nobody will EVER become a Land Barron if they litter and disrespect the land...this is a message from God. I picked up over 7,000 glass bottles, aluminum beers cans and plastic bottles in less than two years....not to mention diapers, sofa sleeper, mattresses, 400 old pallets (business), oven , ranges, broken mirror glass from 15 mirrors. That horse lover was vain...mirrors galore...he was a recently divorced 61 year old with a 20 year old GF in mexico.....i warned him, do not marry her...she'll poison you and take your newly built restaurant and all your money.
I was raised in Memphis. I have 160 acres thats bought and paid for in Kansas. I have a herd of 25 wagyu and hope to get up to 150-200.
The most important thing I was taught by My dad's best friend is a (some huge number) generation cattle rancher ("cowboy") living/working on three thousand acres of land. All of those Californian acres having been passed down in the family from way back in the days of Spanish land grants. This particular land grant being located near Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa in the Central Coast (half way between LA and SF). Even with thousands of acres of land they still found it necessary to lease more for their cattle operation to be successful and support the family. So there is a 99 Year Lease of an additional one thousand (to two thousand...its been a while so my memory of some specifics is a tad foggy) acres of land to graze their cattle on. The Lease was worked out by either his father & uncle or his grandfather, and that leased portion of land has always been part of the ranch going back before he was born. Historically they raised Herfords but since at least the 1990's have been breeding in Black Angus due to the higher market price over Herford cattle. So lots of black cows with varying degrees of white as well, in addition to some good ole red and white Herfords. I believe their herd was usually around 400 head of cattle if my memory serves me. I was incredibly fortunate to spend a good deal of time out at the ranch. We usually were out there at the main ranch at least on a weekly basis to assist with feeding the girls and to spend relaxed afternoons and evenings at the small farm house. Such good memories from spending time with that family and being able to get a small idea of what it is like to be a cattle rancher. Even got pulled out of school for a round up or preg check once I was old enough to help out. The system of labor sharing by cattle ranchers for the few days of the year that they absolutely need a full team of experienced help was very unique and quite incredible to see and experience. Numerous local ranchers all take turns showing up and putting in a days work at each family's ranch for the round ups. No one is paid and no one pays a dime but you're always guaranteed a big deli sandwich and sodas for lunch as well as that same crew to show up at your ranch on the day that you need them for the round up (and castrating of the male calves, steers from that day forward). As much as I loved the time I spent out there and how fondly I look back on those memories the overwhelming most important lesson that I was very purposely taught by my dads friend was "don't become a cattle rancher". He was painfully serious about it, even as proud as he was of his family's ranching legacy. Still, aside from going off to college he never had a choice about taking control of the family business as one of only two kids in the family (and the only son).. His dad's brother/his Uncle never had any kids and being the only male child his career path was set in stone very early on. Tough job, 7 days a week, on call 24 hours a day (especially during calfing season), relatively low pay, and hay is crazy expensive in CA where the green pasture grass never lasts that long.
My grandpa told me the same thing!
Thanks for breaking this down for me. Much appreciated!
I want to own a ranch one day. Always loved that style of living. I grew up on a little ranch.
Very cool and very realistic. Thanks for sharing. You’re spot on about $0 for employees 😂 that’s why we had to start a YT channel too 😊
That’s for sure. I’ve actually watched several of your videos. My dad comments on one about every time I talk to him.
@@LifeintheWest sweet! We have several horses from Treasure State QH there in Montana. I don’t watch KZhead much but I’ll be subscribing! Thank you for representing the ag community well🙌🏼
@@LifeintheWest I am subbed to both of your channels and enjoy watching the different lifestyles. I've always wanted to own a ranch but not to make money. Just to enjoy the cowboy lifestyle. I will hire the work done and I will enjoy living on a ranch and also employ people that want to work on a ranch but will never be able to inherit or gather enough money to buy their own ranch... Always been my dream. My Dad was a cowboy and worked on ranches in north west Texas in his youth. He always had land and farms when I was growing up but He worked in the oilfield to be able to afford the land.
@@dannywilsher4165 they used to have an oil refinery & an oil field in Cut Bank, Montana.... but it's obsolete, so that extra job is out
@@montanawarren8462 Just have to figure out something better I suppose!!!
Land rich and cash poor, that's how the old timers explain it. Great videos my friend.
Exactly! Millions of dollars in assets but 0 cash flow. 😂
This was very good, informative and downright humbling. God Bless the American Farmer!
It's a good thing you have this yt channel to supplement your income
I worked on the "Naggin' Women Ranch" quickly becoming the "foreman" of one. When the rancher presented that responsibility to me I came back with "Well, Buck (alcoholic) has to go!" unwilling to agree, I gave my notice for after hay season departure. Buck lasted till round up and was fired for driving threw the headquarters main gate (drunk) letting the entire herd out overnight.. I prefer an clean and sober ranch.. I miss the "Naggin' Women Ranch"
Well, im sure one of this these those women will be naggin' you back to the ranch.
It's natural to feel some nostalgia and miss the ranch even after you've left.
If a bull needs to be replaced every 5 years to prevent inbreeding, has anyone considered swapping your bull with another rancher's bull?
First thought to pop into my mind too
Getting bulls that are already breeding, and are older in age you risk disease transfer if you’re getting bulls that are already breeding cows for several crops. Most bulls start getting a little more fragile with age, so bringing in a younger virgin bull is normally the better choice.
@@alanstar7566 ooo
😊😊😊p😊😊
This is very interesting to me! Your ranchers really do work hard for your money. My aunt and uncle raised thousands of chickens in Arkansas. I saw how hard they worked. Plus raising cattle and their own hay. I loved talking and learning about this type of living from him. I'm from Kansas city (Cowtown)
That's great to hear that you find ranching interesting! Indeed, ranchers put in a lot of hard work and dedication to make a living from their land and livestock. It's impressive that your aunt and uncle raised thousands of chickens in Arkansas and also managed cattle and hay. Kansas City, known as "Cowtown," has a rich history and connection to ranching and agriculture. It must have been fascinating to learn about the ranching lifestyle from your uncle.
My dream is to be like you and you really bring up information I didn’t know. I do some ranch hand work in ND but I want to get my own ranch some day and have it how I want it and yours gives me a lot of ideas of what I want and this vid made me realize the expenses and stuff and I thought that was cool that you put that in the vid. Thanks for posting these videos. I am excited for that game as well.
Don't give up your dream, Peter. My family had a dairy herd near Harvard, Illinois. Auntie Sue gave me the happiest memories of my life there.
I'm sure must of us watching the channel have an understanding of agriculture. The ones that don't, make a change. Do not raise your children the way you were. Understand that farms are for feeding you not for tourists attractions or to look at and post about. Leave the land to people who will use it. It's for the greater good of mankind.
While it's important to have an understanding of agriculture and the value of farms in feeding and sustaining communities, it's also crucial to recognize that agriculture can serve multiple purposes. Farms can sometimes diversify their operations to include agritourism or can be preserved as open spaces for environmental and recreational purposes. Striking a balance between agricultural productivity and other uses of land is essential for sustainable development. Rather than discouraging people from appreciating and engaging with agriculture in various ways, it would be more constructive to educate and encourage them to support sustainable farming practices. By fostering awareness and appreciation for agriculture, we can build a stronger connection between consumers and farmers, promoting responsible land use and ensuring the availability of quality food for all. It is an important goal to educate future generations about the importance of agriculture and its relationship to food security. Encouraging children to understand where their food comes from and appreciate the efforts of farmers can help create a more sustainable and food-conscious society. However, this doesn't mean discouraging people from appreciating and supporting farms for other purposes such as agritourism or land preservation. Ultimately, a balance between different land uses is crucial, and farms can contribute to the greater good of mankind by addressing multiple needs-feeding populations, preserving ecosystems, and creating educational and recreational opportunities.
Very well done. I know a guy here in Texas (much, much warmer in winter) who does it differently. Yes, he inherited 1,000 acres and his wife inherited 1,000 acres, but by working it right, they were able to buy the 1,000 acres between the two ranches. First thing is George went broke buying medicine, hay, corn, fertilizer, herbicide, seed, and paying cowboys. Broke. If you are broke you tend to let Nature take her course. He stopped buying all that stuff and invested in artificial insemination of all his 300 cows all at one time. The timing was so the calves would be born right after the expected spring rains woke up the forage. This leaves the cows alone on pasture over the cruel winter. Next he electric fenced the pasture into fifteen, 50-acre lots. With all the cow/calves on 50 acres, he no longer needed cowboys to find the herd. Next he stopped medicating the animals. Any animals that got sick were sent to the abattoir, and their sisters and offspring were put on watch to see if they got sick. Why? Because not all the animals are going to get parasites, so don't waste money medicating them. Very soon he had animals that didn't get sick. Then he figured out that not all the cows needed assistance with birthing. If a cow needed assistance, then right after weaning that cow went to the abattoir, and all the sibling cows and heifers went on watch. Very soon after this culling, all his cows gave unassisted live birth year after year. When he stopped medicating the animals, he noticed something he had not seen since he was a little boy - dung beetles. Turns out dewormers like ivermec persist through the animal into the dung and kills dung beetles. With 300 pairs of animals, the return of the dung beetles meant he no longer had to clean up a pasture. When he moved the animals to a new pasture, the old pasture was completely cleaned in 24 hours. Which means all that dung had been recycled into holes in the ground. Not only do the holes hold next season's secret fertilizer, but they also capture extraordinarily heavy rainfall without any costly runoff. Also he let the mamas wean the calves and delayed castration as long as practical to save that hassle. When you have reliable animals, you can get creative with culling. After 20 years and some creative culling for other traits, he had a herd of healthy animals which developed up to 900 pounds after 9 months. Essentially he has his own strain of Brangus livestock. I've had a lot of people tell me this can't be done, or they can't do it like that because (fill in your excuse), or daddy didn't do it that way. George's daddy didn't do it that way, either. If this post gets any replies, I'm sure that will be the theme. The only reason George started on this path was that going broke was scarier than losing a few animals. It is amazing what you can't do with a "can't do" attitude. Also, George's brother is a local veterinarian, but George doesn't need him. George does have a $5,000 per year horse, but he says he could open the gates to new pasture with a dirt bike. Start with your numbers and cut out some of the expenses like George did and dream of what you could do. Of course Montana vs. Texas is totally different climate, but still.
I have a buddy with a small 200 acre farm here in Texas. He's converting his herd to Wagu. He has invested a lot in genetic material, buying embryos and straws of semen. He also has a star bull which he will soon be harvesting straws from to sell. Pasture rotation and health are closely monitored. The notion many have that these people are uneducated simpletons is wrong. Also, there are many forces at work adding pressure to ending these smaller operations. His land is near a growing town and developers are beating down his door trying to buy the property. He owns the mineral rights, and there are several producing oil and gas wells on the property. The value of his land is several million and going up. At some point he'll probably sell and become a man of leisure.
Thank you. That was most informative. I can see not much has changed over the years-except the $$. My in-laws & husband had a dairy farm-when the milk check no longer paid the feed, vet, etc. bills, it was time to sell out. So sad.
Thank you for this information. Where were you 40 years ago? When I got out of the military I wanted to do two things; get lost in the Rockies for about two years - I needed that to difuse - and after that go into cattle ranching. I didn't, and still, didn't know squat about ranching. I also didn't get my trip to the rockies so it took me longer to be able to move on with my life. Would have been nice to have someone like you to learn from. Best wishes aand stay safe.