by Kelly Reeves
In the vast and diverse tapestry of agricultural practices, small-scale ranching holds a unique and cherished place. These family-owned and operated ranches are characterized by their limited acreage and modest herd sizes.
However, a fascinating and sometimes challenging phenomenon has emerged in recent years: the integration of large-scale cattle operations within these small ranches. This blending of big cattle in small settings offers both opportunities and obstacles, reflecting broader trends in agriculture, economics, and environmental management. Although that is quite a mouthful to chew on, Sid Boyette in New Harmony, Texas has it figured out. It’s been said that Mr. Boyette can raise more top-tier cattle on less land than anyone else in Texas. Registered Brahman cattle is where his heart is. Top quality and pleasant temperment are what he strives for. If you spend a little time with Sid and his cattle, you’ll quickly see the pride he takes in his venture.
Historically, small ranches have been the backbone of rural communities, contributing to local economies and maintaining agricultural traditions. These ranches typically operate on less than 200 acres, often much less, and manage herds that range from less than a dozen to a hundred head of cattle. The focus has traditionally been on sustainability, quality over quantity, and preserving the land for future generations. With the sell off of many larger ranches after being divided into smaller properties, more and more small-scale ranches have appeared. These new ranchette owners can really benefit from the long term knowledge that Sid Boyette has gained over the years.
Large-Scale Cattle Breeds for a Small Scale Ranch
In the last few decades, there has been a shift in the type of cattle raised on these small ranches. Larger cattle breeds, such as the Angus, Hereford, Charolais, and Brahman have become increasingly popular. These breeds are known for their superior meat quality, faster growth rates, and higher market value. The adoption of these large-scale cattle breeds by small ranchers is driven by several factors:
1. Economic Viability: Larger cattle breeds often fetch higher prices at market, providing a significant financial boost for small ranchers.
2. Consumer Demand: There is a growing consumer preference for high-quality beef, which these larger breeds can provide. They also are preferred by many 4H and FFA kids for show projects.
3. Efficiency: Larger cattle tend to have better feed-to-meat conversion ratios, making them more efficient and profitable to raise.
Challenges of Raising Big Cattle on Small Ranches
Despite the potential benefits, integrating large-scale cattle breeds into small ranch operations is not without its challenges.
1. Space and Resource Management: Larger cattle require more space, more feed, and more water. Small ranches must optimize their resources to accommodate these needs without overtaxing the land. “I’m very careful managing my grass. From aerating the soil, to liming and fertilizing, weed control, and controlled grazing, I have to keep a close watch on my pastures to guarantee healthy pasture growth,” says Sid Boyette.
2. Infrastructure Needs: Handling larger cattle necessitates having heavy-duty infrastructure, from stronger fencing to larger barns and improved feeding systems. These upgrades can be costly and require significant investment.
3. Environmental Impact: The environmental footprint of larger cattle is greater. Managing waste, preventing overgrazing, and maintaining soil health become critical concerns.
4. Genetic Management: Maintaining the genetic health of the herd is crucial. Small ranches must carefully manage breeding practices to avoid inbreeding and ensure the continued health and productivity of their cattle. Sid Boyette has been using artificial insemination to breed his cows and reduce any chance of inbreeding. It also allowed him to breed his gray Brahman cows to a Hereford bull with superior genetics and produce some top-tier F1 calves without owning or leasing the bull.
Strategies for Success
To successfully integrate large-scale cattle into small ranching operations, ranchers employ various strategies:
1. Rotational Grazing: This practice involves moving cattle between different pasture areas to prevent overgrazing and allow vegetation to recover. It helps maintain soil health and provides consistent forage for the cattle.
2. Supplemental Feeding: During times when pasture quality is low, such as in winter, ranchers provide supplemental feed to ensure the cattle receive adequate nutrition.
3. Sustainable Practices: Implementing sustainable practices, such as planting cover crops and using organic fertilizers, helps maintain the health of the land and reduces the environmental impact.
4. Innovative Breeding Programs: Small ranches often engage in selective breeding programs to enhance desirable traits in their herds, such as disease resistance and better feed efficiency.
Economic and Community Impact
The integration of large-scale cattle breeds into small ranching operations has a broader economic and community impact. Successful small ranches contribute to local economies by creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and providing top quality cattle to other ranchers and youth for show projects. They also play a role in preserving rural lifestyles and traditions, providing a sense of community and continuity, and passing on vital lessons to the next generation of ranchers.
The Boyette Ranch
Located in the Piney Woods of East Texas, the Boyette Ranch is a labor of love. Sid and his wife Lisa are the owners and operators. They get by with a lot of hard work and determination … sweat equity is the proper term. Faced with economic pressures and changing market demands, the Boyettes decided to raise registered Brahmans. Sid Boyette raised is first cattle while in high school, fifty years ago. Over the years he has learned a lot about the Brahman breed, and cattle in general. Highly focused on top genetics, one look at Sid’s cattle is all it takes to see that these Brahmans aren’t typical sale barn cattle. Sid spends a lot of time with his herd and it shows. His cattle have a very good temperment and are very tame and docile due to the amount of time he spends with them daily. During our visit, I was able to walk up to any of the cows or bulls and pet them where they stood. Sid’s cattle are far from the norm. They are truly gentle giants.
By adopting rotational grazing and investing in modern infrastructure like bulk feed silos, they have successfully increased their herd size and improved their financial stability. These innovations have allowed Sid to maintain a larger herd on limited acreage, proving that small ranches can effectively manage large-scale cattle breeds. Sid is an advocate for sustainable ranching practices and often shares his knowledge with other local ranchers, though I suspect he has a few tricks up his sleeve that he doesn’t often share!
Future Outlook
The future of small ranching with large-scale cattle breeds looks promising, but it will require ongoing adaptation and innovation. As consumer preferences continue to evolve and environmental concerns become more pressing, small ranchers will need to stay informed and agile. Collaborations with agricultural researchers, participation in cooperative extension programs, and investment in new technologies will be essential.
Moreover, policy support from the government can play a significant role in ensuring the sustainability of these operations. Incentives for sustainable practices, grants for infrastructure upgrades, and support for local food initiatives can help small ranches thrive. We, as ranchers and rural property owners, need to make a point of knowing our Representatives and making sure they know the importance of these ag related incentives to each of us, and the population as a whole.
The integration of large-scale cattle breeds into small ranching operations represents a dynamic and evolving aspect of modern agriculture. While it brings significant challenges, it also offers substantial opportunities for economic viability and sustainability. By adopting innovative practices and maintaining a commitment to environmental stewardship, small ranches can successfully manage big cattle and continue to play a vital role in the agricultural landscape. The story of Boyette Brahmans is one of resilience, adaptability, the love of the cattle, and the enduring spirit of rural communities. If you are searching for a herd bull, show calf, or replacement heifers, Boyette Brahmans is the place to start looking. Sid can be reached at (903) 571-4550. Now may be the time to start your own chapter.
