Region V
Mansfield, WA
WASHINGTON RANCH HONORED FOR OUTSTANDING ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
Since 1883 Tower Rock Ranch has been an active cattle operation. Environmental sustainability is a daily goal and cattle management practices keep water, natural habitat and wildlife top of mind. Wildfire has changed the function and appearance of the ranch many times over the years with brush and small trees consumed, leaving pastures with no shade, fence replacement a financial burden and fewer calves to market. Despite setbacks from fires, the Miller, Matsumura and Vargas families forge ahead with a commitment to protecting the environment. Tower Rock Ranch preserves habitat for sage grouse, releases beneficial insects to control Dalmatian Toadflax, and effectively manages rangeland through rotational grazing. The ranch also regularly hosts tours, training sessions and studies for agency employees, organizations, schools and fellow cattle producers.
“Proper range management is an art that needs to be blended with science,” said Allen Miller with Tower Rock Ranch.