The Women Chance Land and Livestock

Chance Land and Livestock was founded in 2000 by Robin and Chris Niederhauser in Clements, California. For the last 14 years, the couple and their 2 children, Brooke and Seth, have lived on and worked the land. Ranching is a family way of life, after all.

“We always had our kids with us. They came along as often as they could when we worked cattle or doing the daily chores. We are blessed that they have always enjoyed it. They learned early on the responsibility it takes to have cattle and horses. A lot of school vacations and holidays are spent caring for the cattle. Flexibility is very important when it comes to taking care of livestock.” -Robin Niederhauser

Brooke recently graduated from Cal Poly and is now a first year veterinary student at Colorado State to become a large animal veterinarian. Due to her upbringing, Brooke has been able to spend countless hours dedicated to her passions: the ranching industry, caring for animals, western heritage, and health. Becoming a vet is a perfect combinations of those interests.

“Growing up on a ranch definitely gave me a unique perspective on life, and taught me hard work and commitment. It also taught me to appreciate the beauty in everything, as it was a great place to live and grow up.” -Brooke Niederhauser (pictured below)

Both Robin and Brooke have been riding horses for as long as they can remember. Robin learned from her father, and she and Chris passed the same knowledge down to their children. Brooke now competes regularly in rodeos, and has been since age five.

“I barrel race, breakaway rope, and team rope and competed in both high school and college rodeo. I was a part of the Cal Poly Rodeo Team and helped put together Poly Royal Rodeo. This past year, I also won the West Hills College Rodeo in barrel racing, and got to ride an amazing horse. I love the team and the memories I made there, and the sense of team work that always persisted. I train my own horses, and love when all the pieces come together for a successful run.” -Brooke Niederhauser

“I wish people knew that ranching is not just a job but a way of life for all of us. We love the land and we love our livestock. We do the best we can to care for it all.” -Robin Niederhauser (pictured below)

In the spirit of the holiday season, when we’re all feeling a little extra thankful, it’s fitting to look to our parents and mentors remind them what they mean to us.

“I am extremely thankful for my mom. She taught me about hard work and the importance of family. Most importantly, she taught me how to always be there when someone needs me. She is such a hard worker, as she takes care of the majority of the office work regarding the ranch, and still finds time to exercise horses and keep everyone fed and happy. Even if she’s been working all day and is exhausted, she still makes sure that she finishes everything she expected to do that day when she woke up. I hope that I’m as good at balancing out my life as she is someday, and that I can always be counted on as well. She is a constant source of support, and I’m grateful that I can call her at any time for advice or encouragement.” -Brooke Niederhauser

Who taught you the value of a good work ethic? Perhaps this is the perfect time to say thank you.

The Incredible Legacy of the Women of Rankin Ranch

The epicenter of Rankin Ranch lies in a valley of Walker’s Basin, just outside the tiny town of Caliente, California. The cattle ranch has been in operation for over 155 years—and remained in the Rankin family the entirety of its existence. Six generations have sweat over the vast acreage they call home (31,000 acres to be exact).

Walker and Lavinia Rankin

In 1863, Walker Rankin established the property. Years prior, the Pittsburgh native felt called to the West, and luckily enough, found success in the California gold fields. All the hard work and dedication he and his wife, Lavinia, poured into the land left a lasting impression that would extend from their children, to their grandchildren, and so on. Walker is even credited with being the first to bring purebred Hereford cattle to the region.

After his passing, Lavinia continued to run the ranch.

“Her family came across the plains by covered wagon to settle in California when she was a young girl. This pioneering spirit carried through her long life of 100 years and 4 months. During this time, she saw so many changes with transportation transitioning from horse and buggy to seeing planes fly. She was a very progressive woman and owned one of the first cars in the area. My great-great grandfather, had little interest in traveling by car and preferred to ride his horse. But Nana would travel to her grandsons’ football games and take a car full of kids with her to cheer on the team…Her longevity and adaptation to the many changes that she experienced are admirable.” -Amanda Barrett

The expanse of all that has been accomplished on Rankin Ranch piles high. Many have been involved with the Kern County Cattlemen and Cattlewomen’s orgainzations. The honor of Cattlewoman of The Year has been bestowed on Helen Rankin in 1988, Glenda Rankin in 2008, and Amanda Rankin in 2013. Amanda was also selected to be a National Beef Ambassador is 2007, allowing her to travel around the US and speak about the beef they raise.

Rankin Ranch also serves as a Dude Ranch, with mountain cabins and the opportunity to experience the cowpoke lifestyle. A wide range of activities from horseback riding to fishing to feeding farm animals to square dancing are on the agenda each day. It was developed by Helen Rankin in 1965 as a way to diversify the family business and take the edge off their dependence on the ever volatile cattle market.

“My grandfather, Leroy (grandson of Walker and Lavinia), had passed away unexpectedly in 1954 and my grandmother, Helen, found herself with a difficult decision to make, should she keep the ranch or sell it? Many people advised her to sell, as there were not many cattle ranches run by women at that time. She chose to honor our family’s legacy and learn how to manage the cattle ranch. Less than 10 years later she began building our guest ranch facilities. She was ahead of her time in the field of agritourism and inviting ‘city slickers’ to experience life on the ranch. Through her hard work and determination, she established our guest ranch which has been in operation for over 50 years. We now have 3rd generation Rankin Ranch guests. One family celebrated their 50th year visiting the ranch in 2018.” -Amanda Barrett

Shelby Newman started full time at Rankin Ranch in 2017 after graduating from the University of Montana Western with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Natural Horsemanship. Before that, she spent her summers working with the Rankins.

“I would say that my job title is a secretary…but not the kind of ‘secretary’ that everyone thinks of. My job varies greatly from day to day and you never know what you might end up doing. In the case of Rankin Ranch, titles don’t mean much and no title is more or less important than another.” -Shelby Newman

On any given day, Shelby may have responsibilities to manage in the office like answering emails or helping guests. On other occasions should could be out in the pastures wrangling horses or being a camp counselor to the visiting children, many of whom are experiencing ranch life for the first time.

Marie Myllyla has spent the past few summers working at Rankin Ranch. Earlier this year, she graduated from the University of Wisconsin – River Falls with a BS in Animal Science and an emphasis in Equine Science.

“The best part of working on a ranch are the horses. I wouldn’t have had a job if it weren’t for those horses. They work hard day in and day out. They don’t complain. You’ll find one you get along with well and that really makes for a good day working with them 10+ hours. You get to know what they want, they get to know what you want.” -Marie Myllayla

“After graduating from Cal Poly in 2008 and returning home, I had an interest in selling our own beef. My time as a National Beef Ambassador had opened my eyes more to the ‘beef’ side of our business. This idea was not something new, as the family had considered it over the years. My father and I had many conversations about it before taking the leap in March 2014.

It has been an exciting adventure, with lots of learning along the way. We sell our beef here at the ranch to guests and the local community. We also travel to neighboring communities for Farmers’ Markets. We have earned a loyal following of repeat customers who love Rankin Ranch beef. Our beef is all natural, grass fed and grain finished. The beef is aged at the butcher shop for 21 days before cutting up into delicious steaks, roasts, and more. We are very proud of the quality of our beef with everything grading high choice to prime.” -Amanda Barrett

“The best part about my job, that is an easy one… the people! The Rankin family is one in a million. From Bill and Glenda Rankin (Nana and Papa, as I know them) to all eight cousins in the 6th generation and everyone in between. Everyone is kind, genuine, knowledgeable, inviting, and so much more.” -Shelby Newman

“Growing up on the ranch I learned the value of a positive work ethic and teamwork at a very young age. As children, we were always included in the day’s work and learned what it takes to keep the ranch running. My parents also emphasized the value of respect. You respect others, the land, and the livestock. When you give respect, you will often get it in return.” -Amanda Barrett (pictured below with her father, Bill)

Horse Etiquette to Remember from Marie Myllayla

1. Your horse dictates what you’re going to work on for that day. If you start your day thinking, “we’re going to work on leads,” you and your horse are going to struggle.
2. Recognize the slightest response and reward it.
3. Consistency is key with training – present a cue the same way every time. I think a horse’s best quality is their try. You find a way to get desire and try out of your horse and you really can’t ask for anything more.

Shelby and Marie herding cattle with the modern-day help of a helicopter.

Stay up to date with the Rankins on instagram and facebook.

Ranchers Lilly Brogger and Morgan Kuntz

Lilly Brogger and Morgan Kuntz: best friends, fellow fiddlers, and Montana natives lead beautiful ranching lives. Lilly is 5th generation from Gallatin County and Morgan is 4th generation from Beayerhead County. Both are rooted deep in family ties and find their peace behind the reigns. Lilly and Morgan have been riding for as long as they’ve been able (on the ranch, that translates to around 4 years old). They are independent, strong, and skilled.

“I have been through a large chunk of the West and do love a lot of other places, but Montana is definitely special. I cuss it every winter when it’s 30 below and I want to ride, but between the people, sense of community, beautiful country, and my family’s connection here, I can’t imagine how different my life would be if I hadn’t grown up here.” -Lilly Brogger

“It isn’t unusual for me to be the only woman at brandings, gathering cows, etc., and because my mom is so capable and that was just the norm, it wasn’t until I was 20 or so that I stepped back and realized how amazing the example she set for me is. I have never seen my gender as a limiting factor, which is common in ranching families, because women are expected to work too. However, there are plenty of men in agriculture as well who will try to do your job for you because they are so traditionally minded that they can’t see how a woman could do a man’s job. Nothing feels better than having a better horse, roping better, or being more helpful than that man that looked down on you. My attitude about this no doubt comes from my mom. She has never been a self-proclaimed ‘feminist’ but I now realize that she embodies everything that a capable woman should. She can fix fence and then cook an amazing meal at the end of the day, which is what ranch women are about. And the coolest part about it is that she has never pointed to gender as a factor, she simply does things. It’s really hard to respect yourself when you are actively having to remind yourself to do so, which is what a lot of women do because they didn’t have an example like my mom. My mom engrained it in me so I don’t have to think about it. Even though I am not doing daily ranch work right now, this has served me in so many ways in my life. I have a significant other that treats me like an equal, my peers respect me, I treat myself with respect, I’m not afraid to ask for what I want…the list goes on and on. My dad married my mom because she is so capable, which makes me feel very lucky” -Lilly Brogger

“One of the biggest misconceptions I deal with is people come to Montana and they think this is a state full of “big rich farmers and ranchers” when really that couldn’t be further from the truth. Production agriculture is a tough career to jump into and most of us that are in it don’t do it for the money I can tell you that. We do it because our families did it and we love the lifestyle. There is a lot of risk in production agriculture. The weather, politics, and society drive the price for our product and it is totally out of our control. Agriculturalist have a thankless job. We work our fingers to the bone and hardly ever turn a profit- in fact it is often lots of us operate at a loss but we pick ourselves up- stretch last year’s income a little further, and pray that next year’s crop prices are better. We do all of this while continually being criticized by today’s society and the kicker is- most of the people who criticize us wouldn’t even last a day working along side us. Producers owe their everything to the land and the animals they raise. We would never take that blessing for granted. That food in the grocery store came from average people like me and the Brogger family and a lot of that stuff may have even come from Montana. We are the number 1 producer of lentils in the nation and we are in the top 10 for beef production.” -Morgan Kuntz

So Long 2016!

2016 has come to a close. Here’s a short recap of my favorite moments.
Thanks for all the memories!

Our Favorite Girl Power Moments of 2016

1. The Women of Wild ‘N’ Woolly Rodeo Team

This rodeo team did not disappoint at the WRRA World Finals in Loveland, Colorado. The amazingly talented cowgirls dominated! Each one was study, sure, and confident. It’s invaluable to have trusted team members who are always looking out for you.

Way to go Rachel, Joette, Stormie, and Denise! Wild ‘N’ Wooly won 4th in the average at the 11th annual WRRA finals!

2. The Littlest Members of team Wild ‘N’ Wooly

Jessa (on the left) and Riggin (on the right) live for horses. These independent girls are fearless and hardworking–imitating all of their mothers’ movements.  Whether they’re on horseback or tending to chores around the ranch, they are happy and they are fierce.

3. Hunting Mom, Holly Cabana

Hunting for the Cabanas is a family affair. Holly, mother of 3, loves spending quality time with her children while enjoying the freedom the land provides. They hunt, fish, ride 4 wheelers, play games, and go for walks on the family ranch. Teaching her children the utmost of respect to the animals, and how to harvest our food in a humane way is paramount in their household.

Kylie (on the right) and Kendall (on the left) spend an immense amount of time, energy, commitment and learning proper, effective methods of hunting from their mom.

4. Hunter, Kylie Cabana

Kylie, the oldest of the Cabana kids has developed into a skilled hunter. She’s silent and confident in the deer stands. Whether Kylie’s using bow or gun, each lesson her parents have passed down sticks with her. Someday she hopes to pass on that same knowledge to her own children.

5. Michgan Farrier, Koren Knox

Koren has been a horse lover her entire life. About 10 years ago with 6 horses of her own, she decided she could be her own farrier. She went to school, got certified, and ended up teaching others the skill as well (including her own daughter, Nicole). Koren now cares for around 300 horses in the Michigan area.

It goes to show that determination will get you places. Koren saw a job, realized she could do it, went to school, and turned her new trade into a blossoming career. On top of that, she gets to work with the animals she loves most.

6. Rodeo Queen, Nicole Simmons

When Nicole graduated from high school, she trained as a farrier under her mother, Koren. Nicole then went on to earn her degree in Animal Science from Michigan State University. She was even crowned MSU Rodeo Queen. It turns out that love for horses runs in the family.

7. Metal Artist, Kate Silvio

Kate grew up playing in her father’s warehouse. Climbing around a world of palates and drawing on reams of paper, her creativity churned. At College for Creative Studies, she was interested in sculpture and welding. Kate also learned to be a metal fabricator. Throwing yourself into the craft helps you create a voice through your work. She now uses her conceptual art to process and better understand the world around her.

8. Painter, Michelle Tanguay

Michelle is crazy talented. She’s been in the art world since age 17, when she moved to Detroit on her own to pursue her talents. Day in and day out, she made art. As she painted, opportunities began to flow in. Now she is an established artist with an undeniable gift.

Take a closer look at the series of faces painted below. Each one is a Detroit native who wandered into her studio. They are all painted on up-cycled banners from the city’s Jazz Festival. Michelle composed over 40 portraits as an homage to the great community she’s grown to love.

9. Ceramic Artist, Elysia Vandenbussche Kelly

In the photos below, you’re getting a peek into Elysia’s studio. It’s an inspiring spot, even more so when she’s hard a work. Although Elysia may make it appear effortless, she’s accomplished a heck of a lot. She’s set up shop in downtown Detroit and keeps the art work flowing from her personal kiln.

Take a closer look into the ElysiaVK studio here.

10. Florists, Amanda Forgash and Natalie Pappas

Amanda and Natalie work as florists for the Chicago start-up, Flowers for Dreams. This amazing company donates one fourth of their profits to local charities. They are spearheading the movement of transparent pricing in the wedding market. You can now give back to your community as you plan your wedding. The Flowers for Dreams headquarters is a beautiful mess of vibrant flowers, creative folks, and spirit of philanthropic goodness.

11. Flower Truck Manager, Angelica Ruiz

Angelica also works for Flowers for Dreams. Much like a food truck, Angelica drives all over Chicago, selling bouquets at markets and various events. As with all other Flowers for Dreams sales, one fourth of the profits go to a local charity.

12. Michigan Artist, Monica Wilson

From fashion school to art school, Monica tried on many different materials. She welded and stitched, drew and plotted, but at the end of the day—clay turned out to be the best fit for her. The tactile nature and immediate response to touch that comes with every work day suited her creative mind.

Standing in a riverbed as a child, Monica spotted clay. The idea that the people who came long before us discovered this natural substance and put it use, forever changing the modern world, was enough to peak her interest then and still pushes her discover and learn to this day.

The ceramic community also played a big role in drawing her in. Monica found them to be great cooks and honest people who could solve just about any problem with their hands. To run a ceramic studio, you must have a wealth of knowledge. Mixing glazes, firing kilns, and all sorts of heavy lifting come into play on a daily basis.

Check out more of Monica’s pieces here.

13. Park City Outdoor Enthusiasts, Nicole and Tina

Climbers Nicole and Tina don’t allow the fading of warm weather to keep them indoors. The cold is an invitation to explore the mountains. After all, your sense of adventure isn’t seasonal. Get out there and challenge yourself!

14. Michigan Artist, Ellen Rutt

Ellen is based out of the ever offbeat Detroit. The murals and graffiti splashed around this colorful city filled her with a love for art that fully encompasses the viewer. Ellen works on a large scale quite often.

In the photos below, Ellen is standing in front of one of her masterpieces. Active lines dance around the surface with colors abuzz. This piece sits in the middle of the Eastern Market District, accompanied by many other murals and giants works.

Take a look at more of Ellen’s vibrant work here.

15. Iron Worker, Ana Lopez

Looking to incorporate welding into her personal artwork, Ana fell in love with the trade after attending a program at Jane Addams Resource Corporation. In no time, she got her Arc Welding Society Certification.

Ana also worked in several different shops and got involved with Chicago Women in Trades. In the photo below, she’s hanging from a scaffold on the side of skyscraper over Michigan Avenue as she installs windows. Despite her size and gender, she’s excelling in the iron working world.

Michigan Farrier Koren Knox

Koren has been a horse lover her entire life. About 10 years ago with 6 horses of her own, she decided she could be her own farrier. She went to school, got certified, and ended up teaching others the skill as well (including her own daughter, Nicole). Koren now cares for around 300 horses in the Michigan area.

Koren shared a few of the key traits a good farrier has to maintain:

• be on time
• be honest
• keep your rates reasonable
• treat the horses with respect
• have a solid understanding of how and why a horse does something

It goes to show that determination will get you places. Koren saw a job, realized she could do it, went to school, and turned her new trade into a blossoming career. On top of that, she gets to work with the animals she loves most.

Last Days of Summer

With only a week left of the summer season, it’s time to soak it up. Enjoy the sunshine and grab a cold beer to drink after a hard day’s work.

Save

Legacy East West Tote

Behind the Scenes at the Ranch Rodeo in Loveland, CO

Take a look at what a team of strong women can accomplish together. Wild ‘N’ Wooly won 4th in the average at the 11th annual WRRA finals!

Tips From the Top Horse Rodeo Winner

Here are a few pointers from Joette Donnell, the winner of Top Horse at the 11th annual WRRA finals:

“Winning at a competition is the ultimate reward for all the time you put in practicing and money you spend traveling. It’s a lot of work to make it to the top of any sport. I will never feel like I have actually made it that far, but each successful competition I do well at, I feel like I am one step closer to being at the top. I have been blessed to have a family who is very good at training horses and competing in roping events. I have tried to take full advantage of my opportunity to learn from them. Dad used to enter ranch rodeos with my brother, JT, and I when we were in middle school and high school. We had a lot of success. I am very proud that my father would allow us to enter with him, he always had a group of grown men that would enter with him any where he wanted to compete.

Winning Top Horse was a great accomplishment! I am so proud that they chose B.P. and I. It took both of us as well as the Wild and Wooly team to achieve the honor. I love the ladies on our team! They have great work ethic and positive attitudes. That goes a long ways when you are trying to fulfill a dream.

I believe anyone who would like to win Top Horse needs to consistently work hard at their trade. They must ride all the time and keep their horse tuned up as well as themselves. They also need to perfect their roping and sorting skills in order to be on the top of their game. It doesn’t happen over night. Having a team that pulls their weight and beyond, is also a big benefit. It makes competition easier when things are going well. Your horse is much easier to show to the judges when everything your team accomplishes is fairly smooth and doesn’t leave a negative memory in the judges mind. As the saying goes…”It takes a village”, well that is true in so many facets of life. I believe anyone’s “village” helps them to accomplish their goals and realize their full potential!” -Joette Donnell