We are actively working on developing a management program that works best for us, our cattle, and our land - with a strong emphasis on robust herd genetics and pasture soil regeneration.
The relationship between cattle, soil, and people is undeniable, and when well-managed can make a world of difference.
Through rotational grazing, shade management, and selective seeding, we can make a measurable positive impact on the soil fertility, biodiversity, and moisture retention in our pastures. Vigorous dependable forage means healthy cattle and quality nutritious beef.
Two registered heifer calves currently listed for sale. Please see below for details.
We began our fold of Highlands in the fall of 2023, doubling it again in the spring of 2024.
We are shaping up our young fold to calf from May 24th to July 24th on fresh pasture each year. We carry our cow-calf pairs through the winter, and wean in the spring by April 1st.
We are proud members of the Canadian Highland Cattle Society, and register all of our purebred breeding stock with the Canadian Livestock Records Corporation.
Our cattle are raised on pasture year-round.
During the spring, summer, and fall they graze on the fresh growth of grass and legumes using an intensively managed rotational grazing program.
During the winter, they are fed our hay and silage out on pasture.
Our beef can be finished on grass pasture, or optionally grain-finished with local certified organic feed.
Liquid molasses mineral and protein supplement is provided free-choice all year to ensure a well-rounded healthy diet.
1. UNFUSSY FORAGERS: Highland cattle are hardy and adaptable grazers, and are known for being self sufficient. These are assets in our challenging terrain and cold climate. We are actively working to improve the forage quality throughout our pastures using rotational grazing, regenerative practices, and silvopasture shade management. With our steep silvopastures being challenging to maneuver, it is a slow-going arduous process. So our cattle need to be able to willingly and efficiently convert even the less-palatable forage in the hard to reach places into quality flavourful beef - as they certainly do.
2. NUTRITIONAL BEEF: Grass-fed, pasture-raised Highland cattle produce very high quality, healthy beef that is:
All while maintaining excellent marbling, tenderness and flavour!
3. EVEN-TEMPERED: Highland cattle are a slightly smaller breed, known for being docile and calm as compared to most other breeds of cattle. Every step we can take in the direction of safety is appreciated on our family run ranch. Safety in working with our cattle is paramount, and we strive for the infrastructure and management practices appropriate to allow for the safest and quietest working conditions possible. However, the amicable nature of our cattle and the forgiveness that can afford in unforeseen circumstances is greatly appreciated.
4. MOUNTAIN MAMAS: Highland cows are known to calf easily and have naturally strong mothering instincts, being unassisted more than 90% of the time, and producing high fat milk for their calves. We pair those qualities with a late spring early summer calving season in fresh pasture grass to set ourselves and our herd up for success as much as possible. While they may be well-mannered with us, they do have grit and courage when the moment demands it. Cows in our own herd have been witnessed chasing off a mountain lion. Tough horned cows and respectful livestock guardian dogs make for well-protected calves.
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Shuswap Highland Ranch
1590 Yankee Flats Road, Salmon Arm, British Columbia V1E 3J4, Canada
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