Rounding Up Cattle on the Range and Why We Brand Calves
In this video, the ranchers at Ely Springs Allotment are rounding up cattle for branding, explaining its importance in the industry. Covering over 480,000 acres of land, they employ traditional horseback methods to gather cattle in a stress-free manner. Branding serves as a crucial form of legal identification, much like a vehicle title, ensuring that stolen cattle cannot be easily sold without proper documentation. The video showcases the vast landscapes of Nevada and the challenges of managing livestock in a desert climate.
The video also delves into the logistics of cattle management, emphasizing the significance of water access, pasture rotation, and weather conditions in maintaining herd health. The team strategically brands calves before the summer heat sets in, ensuring a humane process. With a mix of experienced ranchers and newcomers, the operation highlights teamwork, tradition, and the necessity of preserving ranching practices in an evolving world.