By far the most numerous species of cattle in Montana is black Angus. They have a thick coat, durable to winters in the north. Montana is number 1 in the nation for 'seed stock' (black Angus bulls).

The majority of ranch operations in the state of Montana are cow-calf. Meaning every summer bulls are brought in to breed with a herd of permanent females, producing calves between January and April. Farmers typically sell claves around October.

The struggle is in feeding livestock. Economically, the best way to go about feeding a herd is to let them graze in a pasture during months that don't accumulate much snow. However, in the winter when the snow begins to pile up supplements like silage, corn, alfalfa, etc. are used to keep the cattle fed.

Moving cattle also comes with its own challenges. Some farmers can afford ATVs or UTVs to move herds. However, moving cattle on horseback is the best way to navigate tough terrain and unpredictable weather.

Maintaining help on farms and ranches is difficult for farmers across the nation, but northern states - like Montana - come with their own set of challenges. Finding seasonal or year-round help means finding people with a heart for maintaining the country's production. Farms nationally have been forced into closure for lack of help; however, as we emerge as a more independent country this tide will change and bring about a generation that is passionate for conserving our resources.