In Montana, encountering a couple of cows during the day is a common occurrence. With over 2 million cows spread across the state, it’s evident that Montana, known as Big Sky Country, is a prime location for cattle ranching. What’s intriguing is the growing effort by some ranchers to promote locally-produced beef in Montana’s dining establishments.
Montana stands as a cattle capital, boasting a population of millions of cows. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as of January, Montana had a staggering 2.16 million cows, nearly doubling the state’s human population. However, the question arises: how much of this homegrown beef remains within the Treasure State?
Contrary to popular knowledge, a significant portion of Montana’s cattle finds its way beyond state borders. A seasoned figure in the beef industry, like Stovall, who hails from a fifth-generation Montana ranching family, sheds light on the matter. At Yellowstone Cattle Feeders in Shepherd, a family-run enterprise, thousands of cattle are raised, fed, and processed, embodying a deep connection to the land and a sense of purpose.