One of the largest cattle operations in North America, Douglas Lake Cattle Company in British Columbia, has a long history. Founded in 1884, Douglas Lake has been operating continuously for 141 years.

My oldest daughter, Cora, is 12 and is a solid cowgirl. She was invited to her first branding a few weeks ago – a rite of passage for any young cowgirl who doesn’t grow up on a ranch.

As we move into spring, beef cattle producers are carrying out seasonal management tasks to prepare for grazing season. By now, many have either already begun or are getting ready for branding of calves and spring processing of cows. During the long but enjoyable days of gathering, sorting and processing, it is important to keep a few things in mind.

As I recognize myself and my hubby – and how we are wired – it’ll help me to understand him and others as we consider renovating a house.

When I was in grade five, my class buried a time capsule in the “backyard” of the school grounds. I don’t know if it was ever dug up by anyone, but wouldn’t that be grand if it was?

Wowk Ranch near Beauvallon, Alberta, specializes in breeding, training and selling high-quality horses of various breeds and runs 200 commercial cattle that they feed with a team in the winter.

Cattle ID preferences vary from producer to producer, but the ever-present question of “which one do you use?” is an evergreen conversation starter among the cattle crowd.

While the expressed purpose of hosting a weekly auction is buying and selling livestock, we all know that a good portion of the folks making themselves comfortable in those worn-out bleachers show up with no intention of letting go of a single penny.

Much has changed in the Gem State since the gold rush, although a few vestiges endure. Rooted in practicality and steeped in history, cattle brands remain an important tool for ranchers in the state.