This smaller 320 acre ranch occupied a key position along several miles of Big Hole River in 2 channels. Ranches of the West (ROW) assisted with acquisition, due diligence, land planning, and disposition of the ranch. The ranch included an approximately 80 acre island. In addition, the ranch controlled miles of Owlsley and School House sloughs, which are unique creek-like waterway connections of the Lower Big Hole and Beaver head Rivers. Extensive cleanup of ranch headquarters, new road system, pond improvements, fencing, riparian area protection, utility extensions, and other improvements administered by ROW again resulted in significant increases in value for the owners and benefits for Bar JS’s western neighbor, Braids of the River Ranch across the Big Hole River. USDA EQIP grants were obtained by ROW for certain improvements. Bar JS was protected by conservation easements negotiated by ROW. The ranch was sold. in 2007.
Photos by Reid L Rosenthal Copyright 2008