The first calf of the 2022 season has arrived at YBGR, and she did so in style, delivered in the brand new Calving Barn!
In the past, calves on the Ranch were delivered in a shelter that was not enclosed or heated. This made for difficult conditions not only for the new momma, but also for Ranch Manager, Gary Adams, and his YBGR student ranch hands. Several years ago, the temperature reached 19 degrees below zero in early March when calves were still arriving, causing stress on both the calves and cows. Now, thanks to a generous local foundation, Gary, the kids, and the cows of course, can be in a heated building and out of the elements when the new momma needs a little help with her delivery.
The new calving barn, located east of the Equestrian Center, was just completed in January. Additional funds from the same foundation and Northwest Farm Credit Services provided maternity pens for the interior. With temperatures still dipping below zero and calving season now officially underway, the new barn was completed in the nick of time.
