ranches

Ranches are large agricultural landholdings primarily used for grazing livestock such as cattle, horses, or sheep. Unlike smaller mixed farms, ranches rely on extensive pastures and natural forage, with infrastructure and labor scaled to cover large geographic areas. In North America, ranches are associated with cattle and horse production across the Western United States, Canada, and parts of Mexico. In South America and other regions, ranching traditions date back to colonial and frontier periods and may be known as estancias or haciendas.

Operations focus on range management, water distribution, fencing, and veterinary care. Stocking rates, rotational grazing, and fire management are common practices to preserve forage and prevent overgrazing. Ranches may introduce supplemental feed, implement silvopasture, or employ wildlife-friendly practices.

Ranches vary in size from a few thousand acres to tens of thousands. Infrastructure includes corrals for handling livestock, barns, windmills or pumps for water, well sites, fences, and sometimes lodges or guest facilities in tourist ranches. Labor may include gauchos, cowboy hands, foremen, and seasonal workers.

Economically, ranching depends on cattle or horse markets, feed costs, and land values. Environmental issues include water rights, soil erosion, habitat loss, invasive species, and drought. Climate and market fluctuations influence herd management and ranch viability.

Ranches also hold cultural significance, featuring in folklore, rodeos, and tourism. Guest or dude ranches offer recreational riding, lodging, and meals, while some ranches engage in conservation programs or land stewardship.