-continued from last week Fortunately, the Jennings
Fortunately, the Jennings Ranch sits above the Hickory aquifer. In most instances, it is approximately 200 feet to the Hickory formation. At that depth and deeper, wells pumping up to 350 gallons per minute for irrigation are possible. Water and its management is vitally important for forage production. In addition to several wet season creeks and dirt tanks, there are three irrigation wells on the property. Each well is registered with the Hickory Underground Water Conservation District, and one is monitored for informational purposes. Two wells supply water for a center pivot that irrigates a larger land parcel, and irregularly shaped and smaller fields are irrigated using pod systems. Plans to utilize the third well are being developed as forage type and irrigation systems are evaluated.
Gary believes that the production of excellent livestock cannot be achieved without a quality environment. On the Jennings Ranch, the land and livestock are managed in an attempt to achieve a symbiotic relationship. The primary livestock species grazing on the property has been sheep, originally the Rambouillet and Southdown breeds. Recently, the Rambouillets have been replaced with Dorpers. These two breeds of sheep have been selected due their adaptability to this environment and their need for the least additional nutritional inputs. They are merchandised as either lambs for show or seedstock for other breeding programs. With land acquisition and a desire to improve forage diversity, cattle have been incorporated into the ranch production to create a better balance of grasses and forbs. Presently, Red Angus are selected for EPD’s that emphasize low birth weight, exceptional weaning weight and moderate yearling size. Registered bull calves are grown out for use on commercial cow herds; heifers are developed for breeding, while any steers are marketed at weaning. Cattle and sheep are rotated on pastures according to the seasonally available forage types and quantity. These multi-species grazing practices allow for a broad and more comprehensive management of plant species. Proper root system management for organic soil carbon as well as the removal of moribund plant material aids in a more rapid generation of new plant growth each growing season. Wildlife is an additional factor entered into the equation of natural resource management. Hunting for White-tailed Deer is managed with only the removal of mature bucks and does to manage overall population. At the behest of the next generation, an Ibex goat trial is underway to further manage browse and possibly provide alternative revenue.
Both Gary and Karen grew up with ranching backgrounds. As they contemplated moving back to the Jennings Ranch, two things were in the forefront of their minds – raising a family and improving the natural resources available to them. Karen’s father had served on state and national soil conservation boards as well as the Colorado Water Congress. Thus, both Karen and Gary understood the importance of natural resource management. They raised four children on the ranch, each of which have a love for the land and a desire to continue the heritage of the family. The children participated in 4-H livestock projects, attended water camp, range camp, the Texas Brigades and the Beef Ambassador program. These cumulatively fueled their love of agriculture and a desire to practice sound conservation methods. Three received their undergraduate degrees in agriculture from Texas A&M University and one from Texas Tech University. All pursued advanced degrees. Moriah is on staff in the TTU Animal Science Department. Her husband Todd and three children raise swine for show and breeding purposes. Heather, the second, raises three girls along with her husband Matthew, who is a prominent real estate lawyer in Fort Worth. Aaron, the older son, is the fifth generation Jennings living on and further improving ranch production. His wife works for Elanco Animal Health, and they are raising two sons. The youngest Gabe is foreman of one of the most prestigious Red Angus ranches, the RA Brown Ranch. His wife does free-lance writing, editing, and proofing for numerous livestock publications, and they have one son.
In addition to their greatest accomplishment of raising children who love the Lord and desire to continue in stewardship of the land, the Jennings family has been involved in many other activities. Gary and Karen have served their church in various leadership roles for over 35 years. They have both received outstanding 4-H leader recognition. Gary served as chairman of the county livestock sale committee for 20 years and coached wool and livestock judging teams, taking five to national contests. He officiates collegiate livestock judging contests and has received special recognition from the State Fair of Texas and the North American International Livestock Exposition. Gary presently serves on the Farm Service Agency board, the Extension Service Advisory Council, the State Lamb & Goat Validation Committee, and San Saba County tax review board. For 32 years Gary worked as the Executive Secretary of the American Southdown Breeders’ Association and currently serves as secretary for the Texas Lamb Breeders Association. Gary and Karen believe that the future of sustainable agriculture and natural resource conservation lies with future generations and desire to instill that belief in their grandchildren, six generation Jennings’. Thank you to the Soil and Water Conservation Districts of Texas for your consideration of the Jennings Ranch for the Conservation Rancher Awards Program.