Getting started in ranching Starting in agriculture is often a
Specializing in Angus beef Worldwide, there are more than 250 recognized breeds of beef cattle, with 80 in the U.S. “Cattle breeds have different traits, and people have crossbred those traits,” Airola says. He chose to raise Angus beef, which originated in the British Isles. Traits include high production, strong maternal instincts and mild temperament. Angus beef is marbled and tender and is the most popular breed in the U.S.
challenge for many young farmers and ranchers, Airola points out. “We were told to build our own thing from the ground up. It was, ‘I’ll sell you some cows, but you’re not going to inherit my cows—you have to earn it like I did.’” Startup costs, high interest rates and a lack of access to land, equipment and financial assistance are some roadblocks for those just starting out.
Raised on pasture Airola’s cattle spend most of the year grazing on pasture, which contains native grasses and forages such as wild oats, clover and timothy grass. When the grass is green, the forage is dense with nutrients. “I always look at myself as a grass farmer,” Airola says. “I just use the cows to harvest it.” After seeds drop in the fall, pastures have fewer nutrients, so ranchers feed supplemental hay to boost nutrition.
Environmental stewardship Well-managed grazing not only feeds the cows but benefits ecosystems by reducing wildfire risk and enhancing habitat for plants and animals. “The environment at my ranch is the same now as it was 200 years ago,” Airola says. “There’s wildlife, birds and insects, and the microbes and vegetation are all part of the balanced ecosystem.”
Christine Souza csouza@californiabountiful.com
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