TWO RIVERS RANCH
Crookston, NE
About The Ranch
Two Rivers Ranch is a cow/calf operation located 20 miles southwest of Valentine, the county seat of Cherry County Nebraska. At the confluence of the Snake and Niobrara Rivers, the ranch consists of riparian and upland pastures and has two center pivots that are used to raise hay and for supplemental grazing. Located in what is known as the German Settlement, there are many neighbors within a few miles of the ranch. Two Rivers Ranch was founded in 1986 by Ed Brown and his family, who have been in the cattle business for over 60 years. The ranch was a natural addition to their commercial feed yard in south-central Nebraska.
The ranch has recently transitioned to summer calving and will graze pastures more intensely while increasing rest periods between grazing periods. With goals of sustainability and improvement now and in the future, Two Rivers Ranch cares about what they do because it is important. Important as a job well done and important for future generations.
Two Rivers Ranch has a conservative management style in most respects while also looking for new and better ways of interacting with the land, animals, and people. Their philosophy is to be good neighbors, positive contributors to the community, as well as good stewards of the land. Guiding them in their endeavors is gratitude for being given the opportunity to be in the Sandhills of Nebraska.
The Mentors
Ed Brown
Ed Brown has been ranching in the Nebraska Sandhills for 35 years and was raised in the registered Black Angus business. Ed and his wife of 40 years have 2 children and one grandchild. Ed believes it is important to be able to look back on whatever he has accomplished with pride. His top value is to do the right thing whether it be in ranching or community involvement, and he looks forward to being able to pass on his experience and knowledge to someone enthusiastic to learn about ranching.
Tagg From
Tagg From is a Nebraska Sandhills native with over forty years of ranching experience. He has managed ranches in both Nebraska and Wyoming over the years. Tagg and his wife have four children and have been at Two Rivers Ranch for 7 years. Tagg and Ed are aligned in their ranching philosophies and goals of sustainability and stewardship of the land. He desires future generations to be able to enjoy life and the lifestyle of the sandhills. He is excited to be a part of giving someone the opportunity to learn not only about ranching but ranching in the unique landscape of the Nebraska Sandhills.
The Intern
Duties
Daily cattle chores: Insuring cattle have feed and water, are staying within fences, monitoring the health and care of cattle.
Assist with calving, doctoring, and stockmanship.
Grazing plans and implementation. Pasture monitoring.
Ranch Infrastructure: Duties will include fencing, ranch repairs, and maintenance as needed.
Equipment: Operating equipment, equipment maintenance, and repairs.
Horsemanship
Ranch Business: Interns who have the desire will learn budgeting and be involved in the business/financial decisions, as well as planning and implementation of such plans.
Desired Skills
Valid Driver’s License
Positive Attitude
Works well with other people
Comfortable with hard work
Inquisitive mind
Common Sense
Honest
Non-smoking
The Details
Length of Internship: 3 Months
Stipend: Two Rivers Ranch will pay a monthly stipend estimated at $2,100.00/month.
General work hours: A normal work week is 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Many days are not normal and hours will vary depending on the season and activities. The regular day off is Sunday.
Housing and meals: Intern housing is located approximately ¼ mile from the mentor’s residence. The housing includes high-speed internet, cell service, laundry, and a kitchen. All bedding, towels, kitchen, and house items are included. Housing is to be kept clean. A food stipend will be provided. Visitors are welcome with mentors’ approval.
Vehicles: Ranch vehicles will be provided for ranch-related work.
Horse: Intern may bring their own horse with mentors’ approval.
Additional items the Intern should bring: The intern should bring sturdy work clothes along with work boots, gloves, and a hat.
Living at Two Rivers Ranch: Valentine is 20 miles away and has all basic amenities including places to eat and drink, grocery stores, hotels, a health clinic, a post office, and gas stations. Valentine offers many recreational activities including fishing, hiking, floating the river, and canoeing. Community events include brandings, barbeques, church socials, and many other events.
Educational Activities: The intern will have the opportunity to attend select workshops and participate in various ranch tours.
