Cottonwood Ranch is a six-generation cow-calf and horse operation in Wells , Nevada . The Smith and Molsbee families are at the forefront of sustainable cattle ranching realizing that wildlife , healthy lands , and livestock can coexist and thrive together through managing both private and public lands as a whole . The ranch has an extensive history of working with federal and state partners to implement conservation practices and is a leader in utilizing virtual fencing for cattle . Cottonwood Ranch has implemented intensive grazing management strategies on their private land that have created more diverse meadows . Diversification has also played a role in the ranch ’ s success , with the families expanding their business to include an events venue , hunting operation , veterans retreat and birding and wildlife learning center .

Wells , NV

Wamego , KS

Located in the heart of the Kansas Flint Hills , southwest of Wamego , Downey Ranch is a commercial cowcalf operation committed to stewardship . Owners Joe Carpenter and Barb Downey have incorporated numerous grazing management techniques to enhance rangeland health , minimize the need for harvested forages and meet the nutritional needs of their cattle with little supplemental feed . In addition to extensive use of rotational grazing , they utilize a novel bale grazing program to help cover winter feed needs . Downey Ranch utilizes prescribed burning to enhance the mix of grass species in their pastures as well as control woody encroachment . The family has also integrated new technology to enhance cattle well-being , improve land management and reduce labor needs .