Ten Weeks of Work, Learning, and Growth
#bfrdpwy #aginternship #RightRisk
Looking back on my summer at the ranch, I was able to experience many different parts of a large ranching operation. My days included moving and checking cattle, putting out mineral, irrigating, doctoring livestock, shoeing horses, and helping with jobs around the ranch. Even though some of these tasks became routine, each one helped me better understand how much work and planning it takes to keep a ranch running.
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One of the biggest things I gained this summer was the opportunity to build on skills I already had while learning new ones. My previous experience shoeing horses allowed me to contribute to the ranch, while riding with the head irrigator, doctoring cattle with a dart gun, and attending Ranching for Profit school introduced me to different sides of the operation. I learned that successful ranching requires more than being good with livestock; it also takes good management, decision-making, and an understanding of the business.
The people I worked with were another important part of my experience. Participating in rodeos, the county fair, and a team branding showed me how closely ranching is tied to community and teamwork. Working alongside some of the irrigation crew also gave me the chance to exchange cultures and learn different ways of doing things. At the same time, injuries to both people and livestock reminded me of the risks that come with ranch work and the importance of preparation, communication, and good horsemanship.
Overall, my summer gave me a better understanding of what it takes to operate a successful ranch. I came into the summer with experience in the livestock industry, but I am leaving with a broader understanding of ranch management, risk, teamwork, and the business side of agriculture. More than anything, this internship gave me experiences that I can carry with me into whatever part of the ranching industry I pursue in the future.
Submitted by: Sean Frost
Edits by: GrowinG Internship Team
