It’s calving season in the Bitterroot, and nothing feels as magical as welcoming new life on the ranch! From the first newborn calf of the year to the quiet work behind every healthy herd, join Kelly Whitmoyer in celebrating spring, ranch life, and the dedication it takes to make it all possible.

The weather has warmed up, baby calves are racing through the fields with their tails straight up in the air, and the mama cows’ hormones have finally settled (which means they’re not quite as determined to kill you every time you so much as glance in their calves’ direction). Branding season is officially upon us!

Like harvest and hunting seasons, “Felt Hat Season” arrives with the chill of fall. It's the time of year when you swap out your straw hat for the warmth and weight of a good beaver-fur felt.

I was recently reminded of the cultural shift taking place in the Bitterroot Valley when, in a recent conversation with some newer residents, the term "Bitterrooter" was unrecognized. Its use was received with a quizzical look and the question, "Bitterrooter? What's that?" Good question, one that will likely lead to a series of articles, but let's try to unpack it in just this one for now, shall we?

As autumn settles across Montana, cattle shipping season brings a familiar rhythm to ranch country. From sorting and loading calves to gathering neighbors and friends, this annual tradition reflects the hard work, heritage, and enduring culture that define life in the Bitterroot Valley and across Montana ranchland.

Well, have you? Have you ever actually seen a cowboy? I silently posed these questions on the ski slopes one day when a coworker opted to criticize my "fancy scarf" saying he'd "never seen a cowboy wear a scarf like that".

Understanding the legal rights and responsibilities involved with different aspects of land ownership is an important part of rural life in Montana. Our state is one of only three legally classified as "open range" so something as seemingly simple as fencing can become a big deal.