The fall sun warms the backs of a group of Angus cows in Homedale, Idaho, as rancher Doug Burgess checks on his purebred herd. Burgess, along with his wife Janice, runs the operation, which is split into two pieces – a commercial herd in the mountains near Jordan Valley, Ore., and a purebred bunch in the valley outside of Homedale.
Cattle Ranching Roots
Growing up in northern California, Burgess discovered his passion for the cattle business. His journey began by gathering wild cattle with his dogs and buying them at a discount. However, it was their relocation to Idaho that kickstarted his education in ranching.
Managing a herd at different altitudes posed a challenge for Burgess when they first started. To overcome this, they began their registered herd, as it was difficult to find bulls acclimatized to the terrain they operated in. Additionally, the constant threat of wildfires in the arid region added another layer of complexity to their operation. Burgess acknowledges the reality of bushfires in the area and the need to be prepared for such eventualities.
Lessons of Experience
The Burgess operation has seen its fair share of challenges, including navigating through the rugged terrains of Idaho and dealing with the ever-present threat of wildfires. The 2015 Soda Fire, which burnt nearly 280,000 acres in southwest Idaho and southeast Oregon, served as a stark reminder of the dangers in the region.
Moving the commercial herd across the BLM entails a 35-mile journey over three days, a tradition Doug Burgess deeply resonates with. He finds solace in trailing the cows on their way back home. For Burgess, it’s a peaceful time to connect with nature, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Planning for the Future
Despite the challenges and uncertainties, Burgess remains unfazed. He understands the evolving dynamics of the ranching business and emphasizes the importance of treating it like a professional enterprise. Rising expenses and fluctuating market conditions have presented their fair share of financial challenges, but Burgess remains optimistic about the future.
Passing on the legacy to the next generation holds paramount importance for Burgess. As he and his wife plan for the future, they hope that their youngest granddaughter will carry forward the family tradition of ranching. Teaching the younger generation the nuances of ranching and instilling in them a love for the land and cattle is a core part of Burgess’ mission.
Embracing the Lifestyle
The allure of the country, the cattle, and the ranching lifestyle keeps Burgess going day after day. From the thrill of trailing cows on horseback to the satisfaction of a successful haying and irrigation season, Burgess relishes every moment spent working on the ranch. His dedication, humor, and unwavering spirit are the driving forces behind the success of the Burgess operation.
As the fall season unfolds, Burgess looks ahead with hope and optimism. Each day presents a new opportunity to improve, learn, and grow. Despite the challenges that come their way, Burgess approaches them with resilience and determination. With a twinkle in his eye, Doug Burgess embodies the spirit of a true rancher – committed, passionate, and always ready for the next adventure.
Your Next Read
For more insights on the fall cattle drive and calving season, check out The Fall Cattle Drive Now Includes Calving Season.
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