NASHVILLE, TENN. (Feb. 2, 2017) – Black Leg Ranch of McKenzie, N.D., was named national 2016 winner of the prestigious Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP) for its commitment to protecting America’s natural resources in a flourishing
The Black Leg Ranch is operated by the Doan family, which includes Jerry and Renae Doan, Jeremy and Ashlee Doan, Jay and Kari Doan, Jayce Doan, and Shanda and Don Morgan. The family received the Environmental Stewardship Award for NCBA’s Region VII last summer. Since 1991 the award has gone to cattle operations that demonstrate the beneficial and successful application of environmental protection to their businesses.
“The Doan family and Black Leg Ranch are a tremendous example of cattle producers committed to doing the right thing for both their businesses and the environment,” according to Dave Owens, U.S. range and pasture marketing manager for Dow
Homesteaded in 1882, the ranch was named for the Angus cattle that were imported to stock it. These were some of the first Angus imported to the United States.
Today the Black Leg Ranch comprises 17,000 acres in central North Dakota. There are about 14,000 acres of grazing land, where close attention is paid to soil health, which generates greater forage production, limits erosion and reduces costs. The Doan family also partners with farmers on 3,000 acres of cropland, which allows the family to guide crop rotations, no-till practices and cover crops, while providing residue for cattle forage.
In addition, the
The multi-generational ranch has been dedicated to diversifying the operation to allow current and future generations to make their living from the land while also improving the resources in their care. The family’s commitment to sustainability has not shifted from the original vision for the ranch.
“We’re proud of efforts the
Source: National Cattlemen's Beef Associaton and Northern Ag Network
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