Flying Diamond Cattle Ranch

About the Ranch

The Flying Diamond Ranch is a fifth-generation family-owned and operated commercial cattle ranch located in eastern Colorado. With a rich history dating back to 1907, the ranch has been a symbol of resilience and commitment to sustainable ranching practices. Spanning across arid prairie rangeland in Kit Carson, Colorado, the Flying Diamond Ranch focuses on managing a financially sustainable operation while continuously improving cattle quality, enhancing natural resources, and maintaining strong family bonds.

Soil

The ranch encompasses diverse ecosystems, including shortgrass and sandsage prairies, as well as over ten miles of riparian area along Big Sandy Creek and Horse Creek. The unique soil composition supports the ranch's vegetation and contributes to its overall sustainability.

Climate

Eastern Colorado experiences an average annual precipitation of 13 inches, accompanied by a wide temperature range from below zero to over 100°F. The challenging climate necessitates strategic management practices to ensure the well-being of both the land and the cattle.

Cattle

The Flying Diamond Ranch primarily raises Angus composite breed cattle. These medium-frame cattle are carefully selected to thrive with minimal inputs, exemplifying the ranch's dedication to efficient and sustainable ranching practices. Currently, the ranch maintains a herd of approximately 1200 mother cows and 1000 yearlings.

Water

To support the needs of the cattle and the overall ranching operation, the Flying Diamond Ranch has invested in water infrastructure. This includes the installation of over 20 miles of pipeline, seven water wells, and 23 stock tanks. The ranch's water source lies beneath the Big Sandy, ensuring a reliable water supply for the cattle.

Working with Nature

At the Flying Diamond Ranch, a philosophy of "working with nature" guides the management practices. By aligning their operations with the natural environment, the ranch has not only reduced operating costs but also fostered sustainable ecological conditions for both the land and the cattle.

Calving Season and Wildlife

The ranch strategically times its calving season in May to coincide with the availability of natural forage that meets the nutritional demands of the cows. This decision has resulted in decreased reliance on supplemental forage during winter months and reduced calf mortality due to inclement weather. Furthermore, the ranch's calving season benefits wildlife as other food sources are plentiful during late spring, eliminating the need to hunt coyotes, which are not a threat to the calves.

Cattle Genetics and Flexibility

The Flying Diamond Ranch also prioritizes the selection of cattle genetics based on what nature dictates as the ideal type of animal for their environment. Through strict culling practices, they ensure that their cows can successfully wean a calf every year, starting at the age of two. This approach has resulted in a moderately-sized, healthy herd that thrives in the unique climate of eastern Colorado. By integrating stockers with the cow-calf operation, the ranch maintains flexibility in adjusting animal units based on available forage. This adaptability allows them to prioritize the most important resource—grass—over cattle, especially during drought periods.

Rotational Grazing System

The implementation of a rotational grazing system has been a significant contributor to land health at the Flying Diamond Ranch. Since the early 1990s, guided by the principles of holistic management, the ranch has successfully practiced a high-density/low-frequency grazing system. This system is supported by extensive infrastructure, including pipelines, fencing, water wells, stock tanks, electric interior fences, and livestock working facilities. With 91 pastures (paddocks), averaging 280 acres per paddock, the rotational grazing system ensures that each grazed area receives adequate rest, with no pasture grazed for more than twenty days per year.

Infrastructure and Range Improvement

The water and fence infrastructure not only allows for effective herd management but also helps achieve the desired levels of range improvement. Riparian areas are either fenced out or responsibly grazed through careful monitoring and rotation. The rotational grazing system has led to high levels of production, health, and fertility in both the cattle and the rangeland at the Flying Diamond Ranch.

The Flying Diamond Cattle Ranch stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of family ranching and the commitment to sustainable practices. With a deep respect for the land and a focus on continuous improvement, the ranch sets an example for future generations of ranchers.