Corder’s Corner

My previous articles describing my life experiences on the ranch have all included an underlying humorous tone. This next encounter is much more somber than the others, and although there may still be some humor, it will remain to this day as one of the worst days and times of my life. It all began…

Volatility seems to be the only consistent piece of commodity markets lately. The roller coaster keeps agricultural producers on their toes while trying to balance out their profits and losses. The volatility in grain markets also makes it difficult to predict land values. Ag producers looking to expand their operating acres will continue to have…

The beginning of summer is that time of year when thousands of normal human beings are overcome with the urge to rush and explore forests, mountains, lakes, and the great American outdoors. However, when you live on a ranch, these “adventures” have to happen close to home, and this early summer morning was no exception….

If you drive a vehicle, you’ve most definitely felt the squeeze of the increase in fuel prices. Americans are more conscious of where their dollars are being spent with inflation affecting everyone directly or indirectly. The companies that ship and deliver goods have to adjust their prices because of the influx in fuel prices. The…

All farmers and ranchers have a deep appreciation for mother nature’s nectar in the spring:precipitation. It’s what makes the rich and fertile soils of Montana come to life and blossomultimately allowing us to help provide sustainability for the world. I reflect on one such spring a few years back. We had received a 3-day soaker,…

The Front-range as a term is a range of the Rocky Mountains where the mountains meet the plains.  This prolific area of spectacular sights is sought after by eager buyers from all over the continental US and abroad. The massive landforms and wonderful peaks range from Colorado to Montana and into the providences of Canada. Since the pandemic and the…

The onset of spring brings bright, sunny days and a plethora of newborn calves. Today was the ideal spring day with the sunshine radiating from the sky warming the soil without a breath of wind across the snow scattered landscape. Calving season is the time of year when the rancher works the hardest. My husband…

The pandemic has prowled through the world leaving its mark on every country and every industry. The real estate market, rural and residential, was no exception. Day to day life as we know it has taken on a new mission. Initially, the pandemic sent people to their homes to work virtually and help their kids…

A rancher’s wife knows and understands that sleep during calving season is something to be savored. Deep sleep is unheard of, and typical nights are a combination of restless anxiety and wondering when the call to help will come in. For me, that was last night. My husband arrives home from the midnight check and the back door…

Market trends in farming and ranching serve as a fundamental basis of knowledge feeding or fertilizing if you will, several of Montana’s industries. As a certified crop advisor, agronomist, and a real estate broker for farms and ranches, I have been keeping tabs on the surging fertilizer costs causing strain on farmers, inflating prices of…