How Does Ranching Work?

Ranching has been around for much of our human history. We at Bill Bahny know the hardworking people and the beautiful land that ranching has become today. How does ranching work, though? How do ranches make money? You have a few different options:

Agriculture

The fertility of soil changes a lot across the state. The USDA states that commonly grown crops in Montana include wheat, barley, corn, chickpeas, lentils, hay, and alfalfa. But while some of the crops may be great on one property, they may not be on the next. But while not all ground can be farmed, all ground can be grazed. Most ranchers make a living by grazing cows on the native grasses that grow and planting hay in areas where the production makes sense. Hay is then fed to livestock during the winter months. Ranching works mainly through this livestock or agricultural route. If you buy a property, here are some revenue options:

• Hiring a ranch manager to keep the property a working ranch 
• Leasing the grazing to another rancher
• Leasing the tillables or farm ground to a farmer
• Leasing the hunting rights to an outfitter or private party
• Building cabins for short term rentals
• Selling the conservation rights (easement) 
• Logging

Recreational Opportunities

The state just like anywhere was not made equal – mountains, streams, ski hills, and lakes are not in every square mile of the state nor every county. If skiing is your thing, then you’ll likely want to be near a powder-filled mountain. If fly fishing gets your blood flowing, then you’ll likely want to be on a cold water stream in Central, Southern, or Western Montana. If warm water fishing sets your hook, then Central and Eastern Montana are areas for you. If Hunting is what turns your crank, then you’ll likely want to be about anywhere… Not really, but every part of the state does indeed have its advantages, this is dependent on what species you chase. Learn more about our hunting and recreational opportunities here. But, some examples of our favorite recreational activities are:

• Snow sports – skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, ice climbing, skijoring, hunting, and ice fishing.
• Mild weather sports – water sports, animal viewing, golfing, hiking, climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, rodeos, national park visits, concerts, festivals, fairs, fishing, hunting and so many more. 

Only found in Ranch Country:

Many people can agree that the backbone of Montana is still the working agricultural people of the state. Most of the Treasure State is still owned by operators – these are the working people who own land to make a living through farming or ranching. Yes, there are plenty of true cowboys who are out checking cows, fixing fences, feeding their livestock, and haying hours before most people are awake and hours after many go to bed. Cows outnumber people in the state by more than double. Rodeo and cowboys go hand-in-hand which is why you’ll notice large signs with rodeo dates near the entrance of many small towns. 

There’s plenty of fun to be had but most people want to have an asset that pays for itself at the very least.

Many programs help farmers/ranchers financially through conservation efforts and habitat restoration. Someone like myself would be glad to offer some assistance in how to unlock revenue potential on a property. 

Ranching With Us at Bill Bahny

We at Bill Bahny & Associates know how ranching works and we would be happy to help answer any questions you may have and/or assist you through the process of buying a place in Montana. Let me help you find the property that best aligns with what you want and your budget. I am eager to find you a place, whether it’s on or off the market. I keep my finger on the pulse of active buyers and potential sellers alike, actively knocking on doors to stir up additional properties for my buyers. I may know of a good candidate that isn’t being marketed now; otherwise, I’d be happy to seek that specific property out for you. Reach out to me today with any questions or land you’d like to buy or sell! Thanks for reading, and I hope to be in touch soon.

If you missed it, part 1 and part 2 of this series has more information about Montana ranching.