B Bar Gazette – February 2025
| B Bar Gazette |
| Issue #21 February 2025 |
| Field Notes: February at B Bar In Tom Miner Basin, where our 9,115 acres meet Yellowstone's northern border, the land tells its own story. Our recent work with range, forest, livestock, and wildlife expert Matt Ricketts shows just how rich this place is - grizzlies and wolves share the high country with mountain bluebirds western tanagers and white bark pines, while elk raise their calves in spring meadows, moose browse winter willows, and wolverines follow snowshoe hare tracks through aspen groves. |
| Two grizzly cubs captured by Katie in the Reed Meadow. |
| Like many Western landscapes, B Bar exists in a dynamic state of natural change. Our forest stands - primarily lodgepole pine, Engelmann spruce, and Douglas fir - tell a story of natural succession. While 76% of our forest stands show good overstory health, we recognize the historical role of fire in maintaining forest health. Among these stands is a remarkable Douglas fir that dates back to 1656 - a living witness to over three centuries of Tom Miner Basin's history. Our team actively monitors these natural processes, understanding that periodic disturbance has always been part of the Rocky Mountain ecosystem's rhythm. |
| Matt stands under this 368 year-old and 100 foot-tall Douglas fir in section 31 North. |
What Makes B Bar A Wildlife Haven: Gateway to Yellowstone: Creating crucial wildlife corridors Rich Water Resources: Multiple creek systems supporting diverse ecosystems Elevation Diversity: 6,420' to 9,480' providing varied habitats Year-round Residents: From mountain goats on high cliffs to pine martens in timber stands raising exceptional beef while ensuring reliable shipping and service throughout the year. If you have any questions about shopping on Regen Market’s website, don’t hesitate to reach out to our partner Xan Jareck |
| Our wildlife habitat scores reflect this incredible diversity: forestland rates an impressive 70% for habitat value. This mosaic of environments supports everything from great grey owls to mountain lions. Our rangeland and pastureland areas provide essential seasonal habitat for elk, deer, and countless other species that move through these landscapes as they have for millennia. Looking ahead, we're mindful of our role as stewards. Natural processes, including periodic fire, have always shaped this landscape. Understanding this history guides our management approaches as we work to maintain the delicate balance that makes B Bar Ranch a sanctuary for wildlife and a model of thoughtful land management. Each season brings its own rhythm to our work. Now, as snow quietly deepens across our mountainous terrain and shadows lengthen across the basin floor, B Bar Ranch welcomes you to share in our winter traditions. |
| The Skully Barn framed by Ramshorn, the moon, and Twin Peak at sunrise. |
| Here in Tom Miner Basin, winter has arrived in force! This weekend's storm brought 8-10 inches of fresh snow, allowing us to open our entire trail network. From gentle meadow loops to challenging mountain terrain, we offer 20+ miles of trails. Most of our traMark Your Calendar: The Ramshorn Classic March 1st Join us for a day of winter revelry that gives back to our community. This annual fundraiser for Park County Environmental Council features 20+ miles of groomed skiing, spirited competitions (including a snowshoe long jump!), local craft beer from Neptune's Brewery, music with Shakey Hank, and locally sourced fare from Regen Market. Live music and costume contests round out this beloved winter gathering. Space is limited - secure your tickets soon.ils are groomed for classic and skate skiing, while Sawmill trail remains ungroomed for a true backcountry experience. Visit our website to purchase passes and sign waivers online, making it easier than ever to access our winter wonderland. |
| Can’t make it to the B Bar Ranch on March 1st? We’re sad to miss you but stay posted to our website for upcoming events and shop beef straight to your door from Regen Market. Happy trails, Jackson Stewart Marketing and Sales Manager |
| Our B Bar Family Maryanne Mott- General Manager and Owner Matthew Tousignant- Guest Ranch Manager Alex Mouch- Assistant Guest Ranch Manager Amy Berndt- Administrative Assistant Kenney Berndt- Maintenance Foreman Troy Lerwill- Maintenance Technician Mark Rose- Land & Livestock Manager El Stone- Bookkeeper Mary Malley- Tom Miner Office Assistant Willie Stewart- Business Operations Manager Jackson Stewart- Marketing & Sales Manager Mihail Kennedy- Production Manager Shea Kennedy- Cattle & Grazing Coordinator Randy Mesce- Maintenance Technician Kristian Mesce- Big Timber Office Assistant |