Learn how ranching operations are successfully integrating grassland conservation, soil health, carbon storage, watershed improvements, wildlife conservation, and partnerships into their business models. This tour will focus on ranching operations in the Musselshell Plains of Petroleum and Musselshell counties of central Montana, and on the policies that influence the success of ranching, so vital to the economic health of these rural communities. Some of the tour highlights (August 14th) are listed below.
Milton Ranch: Short duration, high intensity grazing; conservation easements; rehabilitation of crested wheat pastures. New opportunities such as certified beef and carbon markets. Coordinated ranch monitoring programs; the role of locally-organized partnerships.
Petroleum County Ranches: Managing for healthy land, wildlife, and businesses: the role of reseeding, Sage Grouse Initiative projects, and water developments in supporting resilient land, ranches, and communities. Additional discussion will include decision making in the aftermath of wildland fire and family ranch transitioning issues as well as the vision for the Winnett ACES (Agricultural Community Enhancement and Sustainability).
The day before the field tour (August 13th), participants have the opportunity to attend a meeting of the Musselshell Watershed Coalition in Roundup. The mission of the MWC is to benefit water users and the Musselshell River through basin-wide cooperative management of the Musselshell River. The watershed covers 9,500 square miles, and supports communities totaling 9,325 people, including 250 ranches and 85,000 irrigated acres.
The day after the field tour (August 15th), we will spend the morning together discussing what was seen on the tour and brainstorming about various conservation programs (what is working well, what needs improvements), as well as how best to improve the effectiveness of partnerships in the region.