How We Keep Our Ranch Running in Subzero Temperatures

How We Keep Our Ranch Running in Subzero Temperatures

Ranching doesn’t stop just because the thermometer drops below zero. In Wyoming, winter can be more than just cold—it can be brutal. With temperatures plunging well into the negatives, keeping livestock healthy and operations running takes careful planning, tough equipment, and a whole lot of grit. Here’s how we keep Brewster Ranch moving even when the weather tries to shut us down.

1. Keeping Livestock Safe and Fed

Our cows and goats are tough, raised to thrive in harsh environments. But that doesn’t mean they don’t need a little extra care in the dead of winter.

• Feed The Furnace: We focus on providing high-quality hay with proper Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) and protein levels to maintain body condition. Cattle and goats are ruminants and their gut system is their "personal heater" so good nutrition fuels the "furnace"!

• Shelter Where It Counts: Our cows take cover in the brush along the Nowood River bottom, while our goats use calf shelters—an economical and effective way to keep them out of the worst winds.

• Water is Key: We use automatic waterers, but when temps drop extremely low, chopping ice is a daily chore. Our cows also drink from the river, which keeps them hydrated even in frigid weather.

2. Keeping Equipment Running in the Cold

Frozen engines and dead batteries can bring ranch work to a halt. Here’s how we stay ahead of winter breakdowns:

• Winterized Diesel Fuel: Helps prevent gelling, ensuring our feed truck and tractors stay operational.

• Block Heaters & Plug-ins: Every piece of diesel equipment gets plugged in overnight to ensure it’ll start when needed.

• Antifreeze Checks: Water systems, pumps, and radiators all need proper antifreeze levels to avoid freezing and bursting.

3. Managing Daily Ranch Chores in the Bitter Cold

The work doesn’t stop, no matter how cold it gets. Here’s how we handle day-to-day tasks efficiently:

• Layering for Survival: We wear insulated bibs or jeans, wool socks, and multiple layers to stay warm, plus good gloves that still allow us to work.

• Lots of Hot Coffee! ;)

• Monitoring Livestock Closely: A sick or struggling animal in extreme cold can go downhill fast. We check cattle, horses, and goats multiple times a day to make sure they’re eating, drinking, and staying warm.

4. Keeping Ourselves Mentally Tough

Winter can wear on you, but attitude is everything. A few ways we stay sharp and motivated:

• Faith & Routine: We start every day with a purpose, knowing this is the life we’re called to live.

• A Sense of Humor: Laughing about frozen mustaches keeps morale up.

• Appreciation for the Work: Hard days make the easy ones feel even better. Winter reminds us why we love ranching—because no matter the challenge, we adapt and push forward.

Final Thoughts

Winter ranching isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s what we do. We’ve learned that preparation, resilience, and a good team (both human and animal) make all the difference. So when the wind howls and the snow piles up, we grit our teeth, pull on another layer, and get to work—because that’s what ranching is all about.

What’s your toughest winter ranching experience? Drop a comment and let’s swap stories!