Guardians of the Range

Perspectives

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SOME of the cultural benefits of ranching as a way of life

Cultural values and strengths are rarely if ever cited as some the benefits of an industry to our nation. Usually the economic and environmental benefits profile an industry.

Ranching, however, is a shining exception to this rule. The American cowboy and the ranching way of life are global cultural icons. There is no other cultural icon that is as recognized and respected around the world as is the ‘cowboy’. This figure embodies all that is good about the value system that defines ranching as an industry and a way-of-life.

The bonds that result from families and communities working closely and tirelessly together over decades have woven a spiritual fiber into the American cultural fabric that refuses to be redefined or marginalized by the endless assaults of modern day life.

Strong family values, work ethic, respect, your word is your bond, and a sense of humor define what it means to be a rancher.

In today’s throw away society, people are always being encouraged to shed the past and move on to new and different lifestyles.

However, a proud irony of the American ranching culture is how many people want what ranchers have…..a tried and true simple, straightforward, honest way of life, that depends on oneself, one’s friends, the lands they steward and the livestock they love.

It is not the boots, the hats, the horses or the viewsheds that attract people to ranching. No, it is the spirit created by what these people do and how they do it. This enduring spirit is foundational to our nation and a source of strength and pride that constantly ‘gives back’ sunrise after sunrise.

SOME of the Environmental Benefits of Public Lands Ranching

Public lands ranching is a proud living legacy of our nation. Over the many decades of livestock grazing on public lands many lessons have been learned and improved management techniques incorporated in to the legislation, regulations and adaptive management techniques utilized by ranchers and public land managers.
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Environmental Benefits of Public Lands Ranching