For More Profit Raise Cattle and Feed Hay

Historical Reproductions by Dick Perue

An editorial in the hometown newspaper of more than 100 years ago was attempting to give local ranchers some advice on how to maximize their profits. In 1912, the Saratoga Sun newspaper editor noted:

A few months ago, the Saratoga Sun called the attention of ranchmen of this valley to the fact they must raise more cattle rather than try to raise and ship hay. The present rise in the price of meat emphasizes the fact that not enough cattle are being raised at this time to supply the market.

It is all a question of supply and demand. Our cattle have been sold off too closely. Stockmen have been tempted by high prices.

There is no business anywhere offering the inducement as that of raising cattle here in the mountains. Raise cattle and feed hay. One need never fear the market. This is not going to run away.

Take some time and make the most that possibly be gotten out of herds by feeding and always being careful not to cripple the industry by selling too closely.

Hay is worth more in a three-year-old steer than one can get out of it in any market.