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Down on the ranch: stewardship and herd health priority for Kansas family

Kristen Sindelar
Feb 12, 2026
Feb 12, 2026

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The morning the Midwest Messenger called rancher Joe Carpenter, Punxsutawney Phil had already surrendered underground, afraid of six more weeks of winter. Yet Joe seemed unphased by this ominous proclamation, despite the 500 head of first-calf heifers and mature cows about to calve starting Feb. 18.

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Downey ranch 2.jpg — When timberline was not enough protection for newborn calves against the elements, Downey Ranch installed additional windbreaks with windscreens attached to corral panels.
Submitted photo

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Downey ranch 1.jpg — Downey Ranch covers about 6,000 acres of grassland in northeastern Kansas.
Submitted photo

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Downey ranch 4.jpg — Low stress management techniques have greatly improved cattle handling at Downey Ranch.
Submitted photo

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Downey ranch 3.jpg — Virtual fencing allows for easy bale grazing at Downey Ranch near Wamego, Kan.
Submitted photo

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Kansas ranch honored with Environmental Stewardship Award

Located in the heart of the Kansas Flint Hills, Downey Ranch is a commercial cow-calf operat…

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Reporter Kristen Sindelar has loved agriculture her entire life, coming from a diversified farm with three generations working side-by-side in northeastern Nebraska. Reach her at Kristen.Sindelar@midwestmessenger.com.