We wanted to find some unique things to do during our "play" day with the Drapers. So we decided to bundle up and head up the canyon to the DWR Hardware Ranch where the operate a winter feeding program for the elk herds of Cache County National Forrest. They feed the elk quality hay feed throughout the winter to keep the elk from wandering down the canyon and closer to the population of Logan. It keeps the elk safe and they also able to observe and monitor the activities of the herd. It was pretty interesting!
We were loaded on to a wagon and pulled out by a beautiful team of draft horses to the meadow where the elk are feeding. The guide was very informative and told us about the herd and some of the things they have learned through the program. 80% of the cows are pregnant and have a baby every year. The baby's nurse well into the next pregnancy and so the feed program is very helpful in maintaining a healthy herd. We were able to hear some of the babies whine for their mommas while we were there. It was the cutest thing!
The herd is free to come and go as they please, but the program has been running for over 50 years, so they know to come to the meadow each winter to feed. It's passed on from generation to generation. You could tell some of the elk were used to the wagons coming right up to them and the younger ones were much more nervous about these human invaders.
I think the kids really enjoyed it and it was pretty informative at the same time. It was a neat experience!
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