As a chill begins to creep into the air and seasons look towards change, there is often an acute awareness one feels of the rhythmic and cyclical nature that surrounds us.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: September 8, 2018
Contact: Erin Opsahl
(970) 423-8901
Erin.Opsahl@SummitCountyCO.Gov
CATTLE DRIVE DOWN STATE HWY 9
SUMMIT COUNTY, CO – As a chill begins to creep into the air and seasons look towards change, there is often an acute awareness one feels of the rhythmic and cyclical nature that surrounds us. Living in Colorado’s high country provides the unique opportunity to be completely encompassed by an environment dictated by extreme seasonal weather conditions and fluctuations. Here in Summit County and across the state of Colorado, the ranching community follows a similar biyearly pattern that adheres to the seasonal change of spring and fall. This twice a year roundup and literal transition of cows from one location to another is referred to as a cattle drive.
On Tuesday, September 11, 2018 the historical ranching tradition of a cattle drive will once again repeat itself. The fall roundup is primed and ready to take place and this year the Sheriff is once again eager to saddle up a horse and take the reins. Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons joined by Summit County Animal Control Supervisor Jesslyn Swirka and the cowboys of Quaking Creek and Triple Creek Ranches. Sheriff FitzSimons said, “I grew up spending summers moving cattle on my family’s ranch in Mexico.” “It’s wonderful to have an opportunity to do here at home in Summit County.” The Summit County Sheriff’s Office, Colorado State Patrol and CDOT will work to ensure public and cattle safety as State Highway 9 is closed between approximately mile markers 108.5 and 109.5 during this move from 9-9:30 a.m.
Colorado is an open range state, which means that livestock are able to roam free and graze regardless of land ownership. Those that do not want cattle or other animals roaming into their property must erect a fence. Thus, the term “fence out state” came into being and also applies to public roads and highways.
The 65 cows in question are currently residing at an upper portion of the Quaking Creek Ranch. This herd of cattle will be moved to their winter pasture destination at a lower elevation closer to home at the Triple Creek Ranch. With fences on both portions of Highway 9 where the cattle will be driven, the road closure should take no longer than 30 minutes.
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