Working Equitation, an Equestrian Discipline

Working Equitation became a competitive sport in 1996 and was originally developed to exhibit the working horse styles of Southern Europe, with their roots in Spain, Portugal, Italy and France. It features three events for individual performers, Dressage, Ease of Handling and Speed. There is a fourth element that is designed for three to four person teams, which is Cow Working. The first European championship was held in Italy that same year.

The first World Championship was held in Portugal in 2002 and at that time was primarily in Europe and South America. I am not certain of the exact date it was introduced in the United States, however there were two original governing bodies, one primarily located in the Eastern half of the country and the other in the Western half. The USAWE was formed in 2020 when the two original organizations were merged into one, insuring conformity in rules and standards for judges and officials. There are four USAWE regions in the US. Montana is in the Western Region consisting of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana.

Now that you know some of the history of Working Equitation, you are wondering why I wanted to include this in a publication featuring Ranch and Recreation properties. I am a proud member of Montana Ranch Properties comprised of a select number of truly profession Real Estate experts in these fields. The majority of our clients either have horses or have owning a horse high on their Montana bucket list and I wanted to introduce you to just one of the multiple equestrian disciplines you will find here in Montana. The common feature you will find with all our members is that we love Montana, and we love the opportunity to share it with you as you select your new forever home.

I have dedicated a major portion of my life to horsemanship and improving those skills with every opportunity. As a Montana native, I was fortunate enough to begin my horsemanship journey at a very young age, being just 2 years old when I was given my first horse. My multiple careers have separated me from horses over the years, having spent 21 years in the Army and 20 years in retail management before returning to Montana in 2003 to pursue a career serving clients with a love of Montana. I discovered the world of Natural Horsemanship upon my return and became interested in Working Equitation just two years ago. I was encouraged to accept the challenge of these events because my 20-year-old Andalusian mare was a natural at the event and as one of the final events is Cow Working. I was able to take advantage of the mare’s natural talent and was fortunate enough for us to win first place in two Working Equitation events last summer.

Wishing you a warm welcome to Montana where horses are King, and we still have more cows than people. You will be amazed at the natural beauty of our state and the warmth of our people.

4225 Sunset Ridge Dr, Helena

$1,450,000 | #22301107 | CALL MICHELLE

Casual, rustic elegance awaits you at this beautiful custom home that sits on 5.49± acres above breathtaking Canyon Ferry Lake. Awaken each morning with views that capture the lake, the mountains, and Montana's Big Sky. Enjoy main level living with a private, spacious primary bedroom, cozy fireplace, extra-large closet, and spa-like bathroom. Total of 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, and almost 4000 sf. The 20 ft ceilings accented with massive timber beams showcase this gem.

406.431.3773

NHN Lower Valley Rd, Boulder

$875,000 | #30002127 | CALL ANN

157.53± acres in the beautiful Boulder Valley in Southwest Montana. Elk, Moose, Deer, Bear, and more frequent the property. Hunt out your door or take a quick walk to fish in the Boulder River. Located in famed hunting district 380, known for its trophy elk. Ride horses, ATVs, snowmobiles, or hike to your heart’s content. Year-round access with paved roads up to the property line. Power is on Lower Valley Road. Good cell service.

75 Louise Lane, Bozeman

$2,795,000 | #38221 | CALL JOE

Bridger Canyon delight! Boasting 4 spacious bedrooms, office and 3.5 bathrooms, this home offers ample living space. The open concept design of the main living area is perfect for entertaining guests. With rustic modern finishes and fixtures, you'll love the comfort and luxury this home provides. The home is ideally situated on the ten acres, to capture incredible views of many mountain ranges.

359 Waterloo Road, Waterloo

$3,700,000 | #381607 | CALL MICHELLE

2825± sf custom cedar home with log guest cabin (896± sf) in a pristine private meadow setting with 142± acres on the banks of the Jefferson River. The main home is 2 bedroom, 2 bath with wrap around screened porches and covered front deck to enjoy the wildlife and beautiful views. Over a half mile of Jefferson River with natural sloughs and spring and river fed natural ponds. 30x50 shop/garage & irrigated meadows with brush and wildlife cover for a multitude of resident deer and moose. Perfect for the sportsman, family retreat or gentleman's ranch.

Michelle Van Dyke broker, gri, alc

406.596.0805

15 Stone Ridge Rd, McAllister

$349,900

| #382087 | CALL DAN

If you would like a property with a creek, big mountain views and naturally occurring trees; than you should consider these 3.77± acres to build your home. Power is established. Stone Ridge Views subdivision is truly an opportunity to build your dream home. You're within minutes from fishing the Madison River and Ennis Lake or hiking and horseback riding the national forest. Seller may consider short term owner financing. Terms of which can be negotiated.

406.580.0653

NHN Aspenway Dr., Helena

$185,000 | #30003631 | CALL ANN OR DEB

Privacy with stunning views located in the everpopular Helena west valley. Get away from it all and be close to town on 32 desirable acres with multiple building spots. Plus, it's located close to endless recreational opportunities including blue ribbon fishing, hiking and various entry points to public lands. This beautiful parcel is home to a variety of wildlife and within walking distance to Ten Mile creek, great for a quiet afternoon fishing.

Ann Snortland broker, gri

406. 439.2839

Deb Whitcomb broker, gri, crs

406.431.9573

6930 Black Sandy Loop, Helena

$289,000 | #22215568 | CALL MICHELLE

Seize your opportunity to enjoy the vast Montana sky, privacy, as well as many amenities like Hauser Lake access in minutes, 40± minutes to skiing, and an easy drive to town, all wrapped up together! Hunters, Fishermen, and Outdoor Enthusiasts can have it all! This 20± acre property can be divided into 10± acre lots. There are many excellent building sites with loads of potential. Thousands of acres of BLM adjacent to lot.

Michelle Johnson sales associate

406.431.3773

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882 Graystone, Corvallis

$1,650,000

| #22213896 | CALL DJ

Neatly tucked away at the end of quiet Greystone Lane, shared only by three other properties, this 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom home offers truly idyllic living in the heart of the gorgeous Bitterroot Valley. With 45± acres of pristine land, the residents will have access to incredible space on which to relax, roam and play. The house itself provides wonderful sanctuary within its immaculate weatherboard exterior, with contemporary touches throughout, large windows providing abundant natural light and an aesthetic that remains true to the home's setting. Each of the bedrooms are generously sized with comfort in mind, while the bathrooms feature well-kept fittings and finishes. A front and a back deck make ideal spots for entertaining guests and family.

DJ Smith broker

406.380.4365

9 Young's Point Road, Park City

$1,695,000 | #382435 | CALL DON

Exceptional 228± acre recreational site with over a mile of Yellowstone River frontage. Abundant water resources with numerous sloughs, springs and backwaters flowing through a mature cottonwood forest create an excellent habitat for big game animals, waterfowl & upland birds. Easy access to the Yellowstone River, an ideal place to either launch or land when float fishing on the Yellowstone. There is 19± acres of irrigated farm ground, ideal for a small agricultural operation, with irrigation water rights from the Big Ditch. Build sites with a private feeling & good all season access.

Don Pilotte broker, gri, rrs, sfr 406.580.0155

895 Corriente Trail, Stevensville

$5,950,000 | #22301335 | CALL JAN OR ROD

Premier equestrian ranch with 140± acres in the Bitterroot Valley of western Montana. Frontier style log home with 4000± sf of rich finishes, 2,000± sf guest house, artist studio, machine shop, car wash, deluxe 48’ X 96’ - 10 stall horse barn and outdoor arena. Fenced/cross fenced for horses, water rights, high production hay fields with pivot irrigation. End of road privacy, Mountain views, creek, pond, and mature trees. Described in 8 parcels for future sale or additional home sites. www.themoondanceranch.com

77 Alta Meadow Trail, Darby

$2,750,000 | #22114385 | CALL

Jan Or Rod

Custom handcrafted log home on 62± acres bordering USFS plus 600’± river frontage. Green meadows and mature pines with views! 5000± sf home with guest quarters on lower level and spacious master suite on upper level. Cherry kitchen, granite, wood flooring, in-floor heating, oversized double garage, 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, office space, high-speed internet, two fireplaces, and whole house generator. Very private. Elk, deer, ATV trails, fly fishing, hiking, and hunting plus boating in nearby lake.

88 Alta Meadow Trail, Darby

$1,100,000 | #22114524 | CALL JAN OR ROD

Riverfront 8.23± acres and stunning mountain views. Fly fishing and boating in nearby lake plus thousands of acres of recreation right out the door. All year access and high-speed internet to this 3200± sf, 3 bedroom, 3 bath chalet style cedar home. Vaulted ceilings, rich wood interior finishes, luxury granite kitchen, efficient hydronic heating and more. Fantastic 1440± sf finished shop, whole house generator, and furnishings included in sale.