As we step into 2025, we are buzzing with anticipation and excitement. The past year was a tapestry of hard-earned achievements and valuable lessons, setting the stage for a year full of promise and growth. With several ambitious projects on the horizon, we invite you on a journey through the plans and goals for 2025 that are set to unfold in the coming months.
New Purebred Calves on the Horizon
The heart of our excitement lies in the anticipated arrival of new purebred calves and commercial calves this spring. These new additions are not just an expansion of our herd but a beacon of the future of Ogilvie Stock Ranch. Each calf represents our commitment to excellence and genetic advancement.
We are checking the cows every 4 hours right now, through the night. Our first bred heifer is due tomorrow, her name is “Cupcake”. She was artificially inseminated to Boyd Blueprint and let me tell you, we are excited! She is almost two years and this will be her first calf so we want to make sure to watch her carefully.
The next cow that is due is our wonderful CB306F “Beth” cow. She is due January 19th and bred to UPS Entice. Our fingers are crossed for a heifer calf! She never had a heifer calf before. Let’s hear your guesses!
Showcasing Excellence: The Boys’ Shows
2025 will also see us participating in cattle shows, where we will showcase some of our new purebred genetics. Our engagement in these shows is a testament to our dedication to the Hereford industry and an opportunity to spotlight the hard work and care that goes into raising our cattle. These shows are not just competitions but celebrations of agricultural excellence and community spirit.
Water and Pasture Management
As we navigate the ever-unpredictable dance with Mother Nature, water and pasture management remain at the forefront of our operations. The dry spells of the previous summers have heightened our awareness and adaptation strategies as we meticulously watch the weather forecasts.
Water – the lifeblood of our ranch – necessitates a proactive approach to conservation and use. In anticipation of varying climatic conditions, over the years we have enhanced natural water catchments and built water developments that help to conserve water. We will possibly need to look at more developments this summer if our water sources don’t fill up enough from the snow pack.
Our pasture management, similarly, is guided by a philosophy of balance and sustainability. Recognizing the critical role that pastures play in the health of our cattle and the ecosystem at large, we’ve adopted rotational grazing practices. This approach not only allows for the rejuvenation of grasslands but also ensures our cattle have access to the highest quality forage. By carefully timing the grazing periods and closely monitoring pasture health, we aim to mitigate the impact of adverse weather patterns, ensuring that our land remains productive and resilient. Each year we must revisit this rotation schedule based on pasture conditions, weather and other factors.
As we look to the skies, our commitment to sustainable water and pasture management forms the cornerstone of our strategy to face the uncertainties of the weather head-on. It’s a testament to our dedication to not just weathering the storms but thriving, ensuring we remain a steward of the land for generations to come.
Innovating with Artificial Insemination
In our pursuit of genetic excellence, we will continue our artificial insemination program this spring. This technology allows us to introduce superior genetics into our herd, optimizing the health, productivity, and quality of our cattle.
The Search for a New Herdsire
A special addition this year will be a new herdsire, marking a significant milestone in our breeding program. This decision is made with careful consideration, aiming to infuse our herd with exceptional traits and bolster our genetic diversity. The arrival of a new herdsire is a step towards achieving our vision for the ranch’s future.
Expanding Our Product Offerings
Beyond our breeding and show plans, 2025 will also see an expansion of our product offerings. As we continue to grow, so does our commitment to providing our customers with high-quality, sustainable beef and lamb and ranch merchandise. Stay tuned for announcements on new offerings that reflect our dedication to excellence and sustainability.
Looking ahead, 2025 is set to be a year of growth, innovation, and community. Each new project, from the arrival of calves to the expansion of our purebred herd and product lines, is a step toward a more sustainable future. We are grateful for your continued support, and we eagerly invite you to join us on this exciting journey through 2025.
What part of our 2025 journey are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments below or connect with us on social media. Here’s to a year of new beginnings, shared successes, and continued growth!
