Letter to the Editor: Ranchers committed to environment, future

Dear Editor,

With Earth Day near, sustainability is top-of-mind. As a rancher, I am proud that I provide both high-quality beef for consumers today, and maintain the land to provide a better future for generations to come.

The fifth and sixth generations of our family have joined us to raise cattle and continue land stewardship efforts. The native grasses, trees and shrubs not only support our cattle, but also provide habitat and nesting sites for wildlife and birds, and the wildflowers are colorful beacons for pollinators. We carefully watch grasses grow and make sure they are the right height before grazing cattle, always allowing pastures to rest, and giving the land time to regenerate.

Where there are cattle there is water, and during February’s frigid weather I checked tanks regularly to make sure water was open and available. This water also became a lifeline for wildlife as a pair of bald eagles anxiously awaited my arrival every day in a tree nearby. Our presence positively impacts every living thing around us, and we help provide life for other creatures.

This type of ingenuity and resourcefulness is practiced by farmers and ranchers all over the country.

I’m committed to continuous improvement so that we can produce the beef consumers know and love, while preserving our natural resources. It’s a practice that will allow us to continue living off this land, generation after generation.

Barb Cooksley Cooksley Ranch Anselmo