North Dakota
See how North Dakota beef farmers and ranchers are rethinking the ranch to raise sustainable beef through land-saving, wildlife-preserving, and award-winning environmental efforts.
MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE BEEF
North Dakota ranching family continues 139 years of ranching legacy
Black Leg Ranch in McKenzie, North Dakota began in 1882 and is currently owned by the Doan family, who are fourth-generation ranchers on the land. Across the land, the Doan family pays close attention to soil quality, which helps produce stronger and more robust grasslands and limits erosion. Black Leg Ranch also implements rotational grazing practices across 90 different pastures on their ranch, allowing them to regularly and closely monitor the conditions of each pasture. In order for cattle to have access to fresh water throughout the ranch, the family installed 6 wells and over 16 miles of pipeline. Black Leg Ranch is deeply rooted in history and in the area but they are always looking ahead to the next generations that will live and work on the land.
"I don’t want stewardship to stay the same, I want it to improve. You know, I think there’s tons more we can do. We’re not near where I want to be yet and I probably won’t ever be to that level, but I do want to keep pulling up that hill." - Jerry Doan, Black Leg Ranch
Meet More Members of the Beef Community:
Clark Price
Meet North Dakota rancher, Clark Price of Washburn, North Dakota. Established in 1900, Clark represents the 4th generation of his family on their ranch, followed by his son Brennan who represents the 5th generation. Along with raising corn, soybeans and wheat, Clark also provides services to area farmers and ranchers through his two agriculture retail stores. Clark, Brennan and all of the Price team pay close attention to the care of their cattle, pasture and cropland. The land involved is one of their most valuable resources and is managed with great care.
raising beef in north dakota
Raising beef is a complex process, but throughout the entire journey, one thing remains constant – the shared commitment to raising cattle in a safe, humane and environmentally sustainable way by using the latest technology and resources. Today, there are more than 1.9 million cattle and over 18,000 cattle farms and ranches in North Dakota. Learn more about the beef farmers and ranchers who are raising beef from pasture to plate in The Roughrider State.
popular North Dakota-inspired recipes
BEEF TOP SIRLOIN & POTATO KABOBS
Use the microwave and the grill to expedite the cooking process for these tasty beef and potato kabobs.
Ranch Burgers
Looking for a new condiment to top your best burger? Zesty ranch dressing and Ground Beef make for a fresh and flavorful burger.
north dakota fact
North Dakota leads the nation in the production of numerous commodities including beans, canola, flax-seed, honey, oats, peas, and wheat.
Discover More State Stories
See how beef farmers and ranchers around the country are implementing land-saving, wildlife-preserving, and award-winning environmental efforts.
beef sustainability
cattlemen and the environment
Today beef is produced using fewer resources than ever before. But conservation is never complete; ranchers work hard to feed a growing population, while, at the same time, reduce water use, care for the land, and protect the environment.
North Dakota BEef Commission
Learn more about the North Dakota Beef Commission and the work they do within the state.