Posted: Thursday, May 02, 2024
Author: Ryan Bramlette, ALC, Ranch Sales | Licensed in MT
As a co-host on the Land Investor Podcast, I've had the privilege of engaging with remarkable individuals whose profound expertise spans diverse subjects such as conservation, nurturing wildlife habitats, restoring streams, responsible land management, and successful ranch operations.
Reflecting on these enriching episodes, a recurring theme becomes strikingly evident – the opportunity of ownership.
Delving deeper, it becomes clear that land ownership presents an extraordinary chance for individuals to make a positive and lasting difference. Imagine being able to shape the land, influence ecosystems, and contribute meaningfully to the very communities you're a part of.
The concept of ownership's transformative potential became vividly apparent during my conversation with Jeff Lazlo, the managing partner of Granger Ranches, nestled in Montana's renowned Madison Valley. My co-host, Matt Henningsen, and I initially intended for the discussion to explore Jeff's incredible journey of restoring the O'Dell Spring Creek that beautifully winds through his ranch. However, as our conversation unfolded, it transcended the boundaries of the creek banks, leading us into a much broader and captivating dialogue.
Previously, prevalent ranching practices involved draining wetlands and converting them into grazing grounds. This strategy was practical, combining grass and water resources in one location, providing cattle shelter from the wind, and facilitating ease of movement for ranchers. However, as time has progressed, so has our awareness of the symbiotic relationship between ranching and conservation, showcasing the potential for comprehensive benefits.
Jeff's initial intuition that a stream held more inherent value than a mere ditch led to years of discovery, unveiling how his actions nurtured an entire ecosystem. While the flourishing trout habitats and newfound angling prospects deserve praise, this endeavor has also unveiled a surplus of unforeseen advantages that extend far beyond the initial project scope. As Jeff recounted the journey, a cascade of unexpected positive outcomes emerged from the revitalization of O'Dell Spring Creek, with some even catching him by surprise.
The O'Dell Spring Creek project underwent rigorous monitoring, revealing evidence of over 130 bird species now frequenting the ranch, a significant rise from the original 11 species recorded at the project's outset. Impressively, there's been a remarkable 900% increase in overall waterfowl numbers on the ranch and a 600% boost in waterfowl species diversity. Around the stream and wetlands area, approximately 50-60 dormant seed sources have flourished into new vegetation, enabling a local vegetation ecologist to identify over 200 distinct plant species on the ranch, including some that are quite rare.
Naturally, the wildlife population has thrived on the ranch. Responsible grazing practices and productive wetlands have contributed to the thriving populations of elk, deer, and other large game. Furthermore, Jeff and his partners have spearheaded a re-introduction program to boost Trumpeter Swan numbers.
The restored Spring Creek's advantages go beyond just benefiting wildlife; they extend into the realm of public welfare. By introducing cold water directly into the Madison River, the creek restoration has a positive ripple effect on this renowned blue-ribbon stream. This, in turn, offers significant advantages for fly anglers who travel from all corners of the globe to enjoy its waters.
Remarkably, despite these achievements, Granger Ranches remains fundamentally a cattle ranch. However, these efforts have fostered greater efficiency and productivity. Jeff himself would attest that Granger Ranches is now not only in the cattle business but also in the business of preserving open spaces and actively promoting clean air and clean water.
"It has affected me profoundly," Laszlo says. "It's not just about the money. I think it's a fantastic thing that if you are a good manager, a good steward, a good owner, you have the opportunity to address a lot of issues that are facing all of us today. We have opportunity to move the needle, just a little bit. It has made me aware of what we have the potential to add and to leave behind."
Laszlo and the Granger Ranches have protected their land in perpetuity through a conservation easement. "In my opinion, we are preserving opportunity for future generations. We are also protecting habitat and food production. I am really glad we did it. One can only see in the future so far", Laszlo mentioned.
The conservation easement model doesn't resonate with everyone, and that's perfectly acceptable. Nevertheless, a substantial number of our clients do hold some level of interest in conservation. In our conversation with Chad Klinkenborg from the Montana Land Reliance, we had the chance to clarify certain misconceptions surrounding conservation easements. We dug into the fundamental purpose of these easements and explored the remarkable prospects they offer to present-day private landowners.
"A conservation easement is a voluntary legal agreement between a private landowner and a qualified organization or government agreement that perpetually restricts the development and fragmentation that can happen on a particular piece of property."
Klinkenborg describes. "Conservation Easements have become a hot topic right now because of the turnover of land ownership and this migration to the West. Because of that, there has been a lot of funding starting to trickle down from federal and state agencies to go towards the generating of new conservation easements."
The potential financial benefits of a conservation easement, such as land aggregation and debt reduction, alongside the associated tax advantages, can undoubtedly influence a landowner's decision to place their property under such an arrangement. However, it's noteworthy that for many stewards of the land, the philosophical motivation to safeguard the land and its expansive vistas for future generations appears to be equally compelling.
When assessing land from a buyer's standpoint, it's crucial not to disregard properties under conservation easements immediately. While comprehending the intent and limitations of the easement is vital, it's essential to recognize that, in most cases, conservation easements do not impede a new buyer's plans for utilizing the land for agriculture, ranching, and recreational pursuits. As development and the westward expansion persist, the prevalence of conservation easements is likely to increase.
In the evolving landscape, conservation easements offer a balance between preserving the land's intrinsic value and facilitating compatible land use, ensuring a compatible coexistence between responsible development and environmental preservation.
In another interview, we got to hear firsthand how efforts to work with natural land can reap benefits expanding beyond the property lines of the ranch and into the community. Nestled within the picturesque Blackfoot River Valley in Montana, the Mannix Ranch stands as a testament to five generations of cattle ranching legacy. It's a place where Cole Mannix's roots run deep, and his enduring connection to the land holds profound meaning. While Cole's heart beats to the rhythm of ranching, his entrepreneurial prowess has elevated the impact of his family's ranch to new heights.
As the visionary behind Old Salt, a unique cooperative, Cole Mannix has forged an alliance encompassing the Mannix Ranch and other local ranches, sharing a harmonious ethos of balancing production with ecological well-being. While Old Salt has undeniably introduced diversification opportunities for these conscientious producers, its influence extends far beyond.
Through Cole's leadership, ventures such as meat processing, innovative dining establishments, and the annual Old Salt Festival have emerged under the Old Salt umbrella. Through these initiatives, Cole and the Old Salt Cooperative are revolutionizing the food system, generating positive ripples that resonate with thousands of direct consumers. Their commitment transcends mere commerce, creating a tapestry where sustainable practices, superior quality, and community engagement interweave to shape a more enriching culinary landscape.
"I just think all of us find that we are at our best when we are kind of serving a higher purpose. We are being of service. I think we flourish when we take a mindset like that." Mannix continues, "It is also about more than just selling meat. It is about the land, about our community. It is about whether we are employing people here. I just think these things provide for a better community."
Mannix possesses a thoughtful comprehension of community that extends far beyond the ordinary. He recognizes that conveying his sentiment of "our goal is meat with integrity" requires a tangible experience. Thus, he initiated the Old Salt Festival to bring this tenet to life.
Set against the backdrop of his ancestral Mannix Ranch, the festival stands as a captivating platform that draws individuals from Montana and beyond to converge and revel in a unique experience. Here, the allure lies in savoring wood-fired culinary delights, immersing in the melodies of Western music, indulging in the intricate world of Western art, and gaining insights into conservation efforts. All the while, the festival serves as an educational stage, providing a vivid window into the essence of ranching with unwavering integrity.
In this harmonious gathering, people forge connections, united by their shared appreciation for these facets of life. Beyond the festivities, the festival resonates as an embodiment of values—where the passion for sustainable ranching practices melds seamlessly with the celebration of culinary craftsmanship, artistic expression, and a commitment to preserving the environment. Under Cole's visionary guidance, the Mannix Ranch transforms into a nexus where diverse passions converge, fostering a deeper understanding of ranching's intrinsic connection to the land and its profound impact on the world around us.
"There are a number of well-known chefs, musicians, and artists. There is a big 40-foot fire where all the cooking takes place. There are speakers on topics such as reducing conflicts between ranches, wolves, and grizzly bears and introducing Swans to the Blackfoot Valley, and what operating ranches are doing to help maintain habitat and open spaces."
Cole and his partners deserve applause on multiple fronts for their admirable endeavors. At their essence, these are ranches deeply rooted in generations of cattle husbandry. Yet, their mission transcends the traditional boundaries. For them, it signifies a profound commitment – one that extends beyond the ranching legacy.
Their journey is imbued with a mindful approach, one that embraces the role of stewards for the land, its diverse wildlife, and the community itself. Their shared goal is to leave an indelible mark that reverberates through time, imparting positive outcomes for generations yet to come. Their commitment is a testament to the realization that their actions today hold the potential to shape a better tomorrow, fostering a harmonious balance between tradition and progressive thinking. In a world where preserving natural heritage and community well-being are paramount, Cole and his partners exemplify sustainable foresight and dedicated stewardship.
"I believe it is such a middle ground, where we can kind of have our cake and eat it too. Ranching produces economic value, it produces some of the most nourishing food in the world, and it can also leave space for all the wild elements that we value and that we are losing in this world. I am very proud of that. Beautiful, diverse places that still have the full complement of species. I think that's something to aspire to, and I care a lot about it. I think in order to make that happen, regionalizing our food system is critical."
The reasons that drive individuals to own land are as diverse as the people themselves, encompassing both current landowners and those aspiring to join their ranks. While captivating images of picturesque mountain streams, flourishing wildlife, and breathtaking sunsets are undeniably enchanting, and the notion of possessing an open space sanctuary to retreat from the challenges of today is undeniably appealing, the journey of land ownership in the West often uncovers even more profound and lasting motivations.
Beyond the initial allure, you're likely to uncover deeper sources of fulfillment that will nurture your enduring passion for land ownership. The West's vast landscapes hold a unique tapestry of experiences, connections, and revelations that transcend mere aesthetics. Within these vast expanses, you might encounter unexpected moments of solitude that rejuvenate your spirit, forge unbreakable bonds with the land and its history, and kindle a sense of responsibility to preserve the environment for future generations.
Owning land in the West is more than an acquisition; it's an ongoing narrative that unfolds over time. As you explore its contours and immerse yourself in its stories, you'll find that the rewards of ownership extend far beyond what meets the eye. The journey encompasses a sense of belonging, a profound connection to nature, and a legacy that goes beyond the individual. It's a journey that reaffirms the timeless allure of the West and the extraordinary privilege of being a custodian of its boundless beauty.
