Learning to Notice the Little Things
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This week was filled with a variety of jobs that all served a different purpose. I started the week putting out mineral, darting calves that needed treated, and working on the water pump. On Tuesday I replaced the hydraulic pump and electrical components on the dump pickup. Wednesday was spent servicing a tractor before it went back to work. Thursday we trailed some heifers six miles to strip graze with collars along the edges of an alfalfa pivot. To finish the week I put out mineral again, darted more calves, filled pivot tracks, and hauled gravel to build a small dam so a diesel pump could water pivot corner grass that is managed for bird habitat.
Looking back, one thing I learned this week is how much ranching depends on paying attention. Most problems do not begin as big problems. A calf starts acting a little different, a piece of equipment develops a small leak, or a water system begins slowing down. Those little changes are easy to miss unless someone is watching. I think that ability to observe is something that only comes through experience and by taking an interest in the work instead of simply trying to get through the day. The more I pay attention, the more I realize there is always something to learn.
One thing I continue to think about is how every ranch has its own way of solving problems. There is rarely only one right answer. Watching experienced people make decisions reminds me that judgment is developed over years of making mistakes, asking questions, and learning from them. That encourages me because it reminds me that growth takes time.
As I wrap up work, I hope to become someone who notices the details instead of waiting for someone else to point them out. My goal is to leave this summer with better judgment, a stronger work ethic, and a greater appreciation for the responsibility that comes with caring for livestock and the land.
Submitted by: Jace_Miller
Edits by: GrowinG Internship Team
