KIDS & BRANDINGS
MAPLE PECAN PIE
BY JENN WEBSTER
BY MIKE EDGAR
RAISING CHICKENS BY NICK SHIPLEY
Horsemanship • Culture • Style
7
WAYS TO WEAR A WILD RAG
RODEO ROAD TRIP
CALGARY STAMPEDE RANCH GIRLS
MAY/JUNE 2022
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Horsemanship • Culture • Style
Vol. 29 No. 3 MAY/JUNE 2022
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How the west was worn.
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Contributors
BAR XP PHOTO Mike Edgar Debbie MacRae Tara McKenzie Fotos Lee McLean Nick Shipley Published six times a year by: WESTERN PERFORMANCE PUBLISHING INC. 235, 3545 - 32 Ave. NE, Unit/Box #814 Calgary, Alberta T1Y 6M6 (403) 250-1128 editorial@westernhorsereview.com www.westernhorsereview.com
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How to bet on a racehorse.
May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 5
contents MAY/JUNE 2022
Out West 8
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
10
LEAD LINE
12
OUT WEST
14
OUT WEST
16
EMPTY SADDLES
Why brandings are so much more than meets the eye. World Champion team ropers Levi Simpson and Jeremy Buhler conduct a youth roping clinic that has become a highly anticipated annual event in Wardlow, AB. The Flying Cross Jockey Club is a unique Alberta jockey program for kids. Remembering the life of an avid horsewoman and young mother, Jamie Lynn Scheible.
Western Culture 17 18 20 22
GEAR & STYLE
From whimsical cowgirl party supplies, to brush bombs – here are your everyday June essentials!
GOOD WORK
Meet female saddle bronc rider and coach, Kaila Mussell.
WESTERN FOODIE
An unexpected hit of maple syrup makes this pecan pie a classic mix of salty and sweet.
HOMESTEADING 101
Thinking about raising chickens? Here is everything you need to know, to get started.
42 34 6 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW May/June 2022
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Features 28
RODEO ROAD TRIP
30
5 GENERATIONS OF FAITH, FAMILY & DEDICATION
From running with the bulls to some of the most anticipated cabarets, welcome to your ultimate 2022 rodeo road trip.
Cross Bar Ranch is a unique family operation diversified in raising both cattle and bison.
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WONDER TROUGH
Considered by the Engineering Centennial to be one of Alberta’s “Ten Engineering Milestones,” the Brooks, AB, aqueduct was the answer to drought on the Alberta prairies.
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SEVEN WAYS TO WEAR A WILD RAG
46
BACK FORTY
THE CALGARY STAMPEDE RANCH GIRLS
These hardworking equestrians serve as ambassadors for the Stampede brand and have an important job. No matter the weather or conditions, they always do it with a smile.
WINDOW TO THE WEST
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Shot on location at 94 Take the Cake, an Alberta bakery that makes you feel like you’re inside a black and white cartoon, we show you seven different ways to wear a wild rag.
Lee McLean muses about the wonders (and the relief) of rain.
Meet four western artists / artisans who are shaking up the art world with their distinctive and sui generis mediums.
on the cover Red Hott Cat
Photo by BAR XP PHOTO @bar_xp_photo
May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 7
publisher’s note
Tara McKenzie Fotos
TAKING IT UP A NOTCH This issue has been abuzz since we started – and I’m not sure if it’s the excitement for things to come this year, or if the material just really “spoke” to us this edition. Either way, there’s a fire within this WHR, that we’re very proud to share with you. For instance, on page 12, you can read about Alberta’s Team Roping World Champions who are giving back to the youngsters of our industry. Levi Simpson and Jeremy Buhler put on an annual roping clinic for the ranching youth of Wardlow, AB, offering a fantastic experience for the kids and an opportunity for community growth in the process. Then, on page 14, we introduce you to the Flying Cross Ranch jockeys. Headed by Roy and Christina Sturgeon of Lacombe, AB, the Flying Cross Jockey Club is teaching young kids about horse racing and giving them the full experience of silks, post parades, horsemanship, safety and teamwork. They even have a real starting gate they use to get the kids and their horses flying around a track. Recently, Roy was invited to outride at the 2022 Queens Plate at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto, ON, (coming up August 21). Some of the kids from his program have also been invited to perform a demonstration, the day before! The Queen’s Plate is Canada’s oldest Thoroughbred horse race (founded in 1860) and is also the oldest, continuously run race in North America. Roy outrode at Woodbine for a number of years and he says that being invited back is, “…like being asked to pick up at the National Finals Rodeo (NFR).” He says he loved his time as pickup rider, almost as much as he enjoyed race riding. It’s so exciting to see some of our industry’s greats, giving back to the kids and the future of our industry.
Roy Sturgeon of Lacombe, AB, in his jockey days.
Also in this issue, you can get all of homesteader, Nick Shipley’s, expert information about raising chickens. If you’ve been hankering for food security, now is the time to make a change. And our Homesteading 101 column can help! Rodeo Road Trip commences on pages 28 and although this is not a comprehensive list of the best 2022 Canadian rodeos, here we detail some of the can’t-miss events of the year! All this and so much more in this issue! As always, we hope you enjoy! ~ Jenn Webster
Send your comments, questions, letters or story ideas to me at editorial@westernhorsereview.com. We may include them in an upcoming edition of Western Horse Review. 8 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW May/June 2022
Creating unique one-of-a-kind pieces. Some pieces available, also taking custom orders! www.barwwsilversmith.ca 780-203-4009 winsnesfarmsinc@hotmail.com
May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 9
Leadline KIDS & BRANDINGS
~ By Jenn Webster
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BAR XP PHOTO
THE TIME HONOURED TRADITION OF branding cattle has been around for thousands of years and it is still a practice used widely today. Branding serves an important function: Cattle are marked to prevent theft and promote ranches and family operations. Additionally, ranchers also inoculate, dehorn and castrate their valued livestock at the same time. More than that however, brandings are a community get together and the preservation of tradition. Brandings are an entire event and although they are necessary to running an efficient ranching operation, there is almost a culture that goes along with them too. Everyone present has a job. Anyone not inside the branding pen has a duty outside of the corral – and the cowboy spirit is shared equally amongst everyone. Then there is the food that goes along with a branding… Some communities have created their own cookbooks based on the favoured recipes that are shared over the years at brandings. With many hungry hands to feed after a long day’s work, branding meals are more than any ol’ potluck. The young and old alike are involved, as ranch kids typically get started at a young age. As they grow up alongside their parents and grandparents, some ranch kids become so handy they miss school to get the job done. Often, they become some of the most talented ropers and the branding wouldn’t get done without them. And even as technology evolves and the process of branding calves improves, one thing is for certain – young ranch kids are the key to maintaining traditions and honouring western heritage. Brandings are so much more than meets the eye.
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Outwest
LENDING THEIR STAR POWER WHEN 2016 WORLD CHAMPION TEAM ROPERS, LEVI SIMPSON and Jeremy Buhler, come to the ranching community of Wardlow, AB, one has to wonder how many kids are actually left to attend the hamlet’s school classes for the day. For the past few years, the World Champions have conducted a roping clinic, organized by Kelsey Yule for a lucky group of young ropers, every spring. Over the course of two days, the kids are divided by their aspirations of being either headers or heelers and mentored by Simpson (Ponoka, AB) and Buhler (Arrowwood, AB) respectively. “This youth clinic has been going on for a few years now. All the kids from the ranching communities around Wardlow to Brooks, AB, come and we have a great time,” explains Simpson. “It’s been quite the deal and it’s really grown, since we first started it.” Navigating their busy schedules and using their influence to give back to the rodeo and ranching community, Buhler and Simpson put all of the participating riders through the paces of rope handling on the ground, to practicing on a mechanical steer, to working with real steers out of the chute. Some of the kids want to perfect their skills for competition, while others are looking to become more useful on the family ranch. Whatever their goals, the clinic offers a fantastic experience for the kids and an opportunity for community growth in the process. “Since we started that deal, the local school has started a team roping class for their students. They have an actual class, where they bring in their roping dummies and practice team roping every week!” Simpson states. “All of them are ranch kids so essentially every one of them needs to have the skills for brandings, etc. But we have seen kids here who have just started riding and they really get into it – and it’s amazing to see their progression over time. We are also 12 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW May/June 2022
seeing a few new faces in our clinics, because of that class.” Buhler and Simpson have already conducted eight clinics since the start of 2022 – from Grande Prairie, AB, all the way out to Quebec. They teach mostly adults and many who are team ropers, in general. However, the duo has a soft spot and a way with kids that doesn’t go unnoticed. Their system for playing games, keeping kids engaged and participants safe, makes for an incredible teaching moment. Recently, retired Oilers left winger, Steve MacIntyre booked into one of Simpson and Buhler’s Ponoka clinics but couldn’t make the date – so he donated his spot to a deserving youth. It’s a concept the World Champions are going to incorporate regularly in their clinics from now on. “In Grande Prairie, we held open a spot for a deserving youth – someone who potentially, couldn’t normally afford it. We’re going to try and do more of that from now on,” Simpson states. ~ By Jenn Webster
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Outwest
FLYING SPIRITS A SPECIAL PROGRAM HAS BEEN steadily gaining momentum in Lacombe, AB. Headed by Roy and Christina Sturgeon, the Flying Cross Jockey Club is teaching young kids all about horse racing and giving them an amazing, positive experience at the same time. Roy utilizes his years of experience as a jockey to teach riders about horsemanship, teamwork, and about being accountable to the horses, each other, and themselves. What began as a few lessons, has turned into a massive program that currently observes over 80 children (ranging in age and abilities) and their families, coming regularly to Flying Cross Ranch.
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In the weekly, year-long program, riders build skills by learning to safely canter in company, paddock etiquette and how to care for their horses. The Sturgeons even have a real track gate that they use to train the kids about gate training. And what’s a race school without an actual race? Once the students are competent in a number of skills taught at the Flying Cross Jockey Club – they also get to race. That way, the kids get the full experience of silks, a post parade, the starting gate and a winner’s circle photo. “We hold a Derby day each year, where students are able to showcase what they have learned and be a part of the races that
day,” says Roy. Roy made his jockey debut in 1982 at Stampede Park in Calgary, AB. At the time, he was the lightest jockey to ever ride in western Canada, weighing in at only 94 pounds. He also got the opportunity to race against a bison: the famous Harvey Wallbanger. Unfortunately, Roy’s horse couldn’t outrun the bison and lost the race. Keep an eye out for Roy’s junior jockeys this June 28- July 1, 2022 at the Ponoka Stampede, in Ponoka, AB. They will be part of the evening performances of the 86th Ponoka Stampede! ~ By Jenn Webster
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Empty saddles
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JAMIE LYNN SCHEIBLE
November 27 1998 - April 8 2022
Jamie Lynn Scheible, 23, of Okotoks, Alberta, passed away on April 8th, 2022. Scheible was an amazing, loving and kind person who was always helping others. She was beautiful, free-spirited, quirky and funny, and always wore a smile. She was also an avid horse enthusiast and beloved by many friends. Scheible was a big sister, a daughter, a granddaughter and mother to daughter, Harlow Jennifer. Jamie was born on November 27th, 1998, in Calgary, Alberta, and was the daughter of Lesley and Dale Scheible and big sister to Jason Scheible. Her mother Lesley could often be found participating in Alberta Reined Cow Horse events and she shared her love of horses with Jamie. Jamie had the most beautiful smile and presence about her that lit up your soul. If you were lucky enough to be present when Jamie 16 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW May/June 2022
gazed into Harlow’s face, the pure love radiating from her would blind you. Jamie is preceded in death by her Grandpa (David Garrett). Jamie is survived by her loving family and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and so, so many friends. Jamie will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her funeral service took place on April 19th, 2022, at the Foothills Centennial Centre in Okotoks and was well attended – a testament to how many lives Jamie touched, in her precious time on Earth. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Harlow’s Go Fund Me campaign gofund.me/26242359 or to the Calgary’s Woman’s Emergency Shelter www.calgarywomensshelter.com/donate Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Jamie Lynn Scheible.
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Great gear
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What are your June go-to’s? Here are a few of our everyday essentials. 1 BRUSH BOMBS Made in Alberta, the Brush Bombs from Kickass Products may be one of the coolest products we’ve ever come across! Simply throw one into a bucket of warm water containing all your dirty horse brushes and leave for one hour. Rinse and let your brushes dry and they will be clean – without using up all your elbow grease! Ingredients include citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, equine shampoo and TeaTree oil. $15 780-913-4250
4 PARTY SUPPLIES FOR COWGIRLS
Danni Jo Supplies offers the cutest paper plates, napkins, cups, straws, candles and wrapping paper for your next western styled event! Choose from the Desert Scene, Turquoise Cluster, Desert Stripes, or black and white Cactus set. $6-$8.50 USD dannijodesigns.com
2 SWEET THING CANDLE Candles from the Farm Wife Collective are sooooo good, you’ll want to snack on them! What started out in a farm kitchen, north of small town Blackie Alberta, has expanded far beyond. Farm Wife Collective candles are small-batch top quality soy, wooden wick, fine fragrance oil candles. Sweet Thing’s aroma will tantalize your home with the scent of cinnamon sugar doughnuts with a hint of vanilla. 9 oz $22.50 thefarmwifecollective.ca 3 RETRO COWGIRL CARDS Share your western lifestyle with these punchy notecards! These glossy, blank, six-pack of cards from Ranch Life Wild Rags feature different, retro cowgirl designs and kraft paper envelopes. Also available are the Clyde and Stetson retro cowboy cards, or the Bonnie and Dakota cowgirls. They make a great anti-digital addition to your stationary stash, when you really need to send a personal message. $40 ranchlifewildrags.com
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5 SHOW-STOPPING PADS Showstopping style is always a wise choice. You will find a huge selection of cutting edge show pads, show shirts and other accoutrement at the Ranch by Design shop near Lacombe, Alberta. Luxx show pads are beautiful premium quality blankets made with 100% New Zealand wool. Oversized and just under nine pounds, these saddle pads come in a wide variety of colours and designs. $236. Online at: ranchbydesign.com
5 May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 17
Good Work
Bold, Broncy and Badass Meet Kaila Mussell, a female saddle bronc athlete and coach. By Kirk Prescott BAR XP PHOTO
C
arving out a career and a respected name in the world of rodeo is not a feat for the faint at heart. It’s even more challenging when you are a cowgirl competing in an event predominantly associated with cowboys. Kaila Mussell, age 43, of Chilliwack, British Columbia, has done what many would consider impossible. A unique and talented athlete, Mussell has successfully competed across our nation and continues to share her talents with likeminded athletes. As an equine therapist, trainer, and coach, Mussell aims to ensure that her clients, both two and four-legged, are prepared to compete and win. Personally, she is positive and goal oriented. Mussell has broken traditional stereotypes and aims to support goal-oriented athletes who are dedicated to the sport. Hailing from a distinguished rodeo family, Mussell continues a history of decorated rodeo athletes. Her late father, Jack Mussell, was a saddle bronc rider and her mother, Cindy, both a barrel racer and Miss Rodeo Canada in 1972. Her brother CEJ competed as a tie-down roper, steer wrestler, and saddle bronc rider. Her sister, Filene, a barrel racer. Growing up on a farm, Mussell innately gained interest in equine-based sports. Not surprisingly, horses have remained a primary focus in her life. At a young age, Mussell’s father had her riding unbroke horses. By the age of ten, she was starting horses for clients. Training horses continued for Mussell, into her mid-twenties. She even trained her own trick-riding mounts. Mussell began her rodeo career as a barrel racer and later transitioned to performing as a self-taught, trick-rider. Soon after, she began competing as a saddle bronc rider, realizing that it was safer than her first choice, bull riding. Mussell has performed and competed at the Calgary Stampede and the Fort Worth Stock Show, among other prestigious events.
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Bernie Hudyma
She patterned her style after Alice Greenough, Kitty Canutt, and Ruth Roach who were professional women bronc riders in the 1920’s and 1930’s. Mussell remains one of the only women to compete in a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) rough-stock event. Breaking a 90-year history, Mussell was also the first woman to compete against male athletes as a bronc rider, in Fort Worth, Texas. As the first and only female to reach professional status acquiring rough-stock earnings in the PRCA, Mussell proved to herself and others that anything is possible with determination. She remains committed to her craft and facilitates opportunities for fellow athletes to gain insight from her experience. The Mussell Bronc Academy recently held a saddle bronc school at the Panee Agriplex in Maskwacis, Alberta and additional opportunities that further the skill set of inspired athletes are certainly on the horizon! Dedicated to the sport and filled with enthusiasm, Mussell is a bold spirit.
Kaila Mussell has many credentials to her name, but she says one of her biggest accomplishments is winning-over the older generation of cowboys. “I earned the respect of those who thought a female couldn’t, or shouldn’t be riding.”
Q. What inspired you to become a saddle bronc rider? A. I really enjoyed the rough-stock events, having competed as a steer rider in my early rodeo years. My dad encouraged me to ride saddle bronc, as my oldest brother CEJ was interested in learning. He convinced me that it would be a more unique feat, as a female. There hasn’t ever, to my knowledge, been a female saddle bronc rider who has done well in modern-style saddle bronc riding. It was also safer than bull riding, which was my first choice. Early female saddle bronc riders often rode with double reins and hobbled stirrups. Spurring-in-time wasn’t a mandatory part of riding back then. Q. What hurdles have you overcome, in an event commonly
associated with men?
A. I’ve overcome a lot of hurdles. Mostly, trying to prove myself as a female competitor. Initially, I rode just to prove people wrong. I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it and be accepted as another competitor. I was quite hard on myself, for most of my career, which made me driven and tough. It also made me my own worst enemy. I never felt that what I did was good enough. One of my biggest accomplishments that I take pride in, is winningover the older generation of cowboys. I earned the respect of those who thought a female couldn’t, or shouldn’t be riding. I’m proud to say that I have world champion cowboys who respect me and my riding. It makes what I’ve done worthwhile. Seeing how I’ve inspired others over the years has also been rewarding. Q. What are your top five career highlights? 1) Winning my first rodeo in Stewart, British Columbia, at 78 points (2001). 2) Competing and placing fourth at my first pro-rodeo in Prineville, Oregon (2002). 3) Winning my first pro-rodeo in Enumclaw, Washington (2002). 4) Filling my pro-card and becoming the first professional, female saddle bronc rider in the PRCA and CPRA in Okeechobee, Florida (2003). 5) Achieving my highest ride score of 86 points in Mesquite, Texas (2007). Q. What do you love most about the sport of rodeo and specifically, saddle bronc riding? A. The camaraderie in rodeo among competitors, makes it like a family,
As the first and only female to reach professional status acquiring rough-stock earnings in the PRCA, Mussell proved to herself and others that anything is possible with determination.
both in travelling and competition. In saddle bronc riding the challenge, adrenaline rush, satisfaction of accomplishment, unpredictability, danger, proving my capabilities and inspiring others, all appeal to me. Q. As a coach, what advice would you give to athletes (both male and female), who are looking to succeed in the realm of bronc riding?
A. Physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle are important. Core strength, functional mobility, and flexibility are key. Maintain a positive mindset and use goal visualization to set yourself up for success. It’s crucial to educate yourself about the sport. I’m always surprised at how many people get into it wanting to learn, but have no idea what they are getting into. More than anything, it’s important to learn from a knowledgeable coach and to get on good practice broncs in a positive learning environment. WHR May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 19
Western Foodie
Maple Pecan Pie By MIKE EDGAR PHOTOS BY JENN WEBSTER
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Pecan pie is a delightfully rich dessert that is perfect for a crowd. With an unexpected hit of maple syrup, Chef Edgar’s maple pecan pie boasts an incredible texture and a classic mix of salty and sweet. A beautiful focal point on any table, his simplistic recipe also makes it easy for anyone to bake this pie – from scratch. Serve with a scoop of vanilla cream and you have the ultimate summer bliss.
PASTRY
500 Grams All-Purpose Flour 250 Grams Butter, Cubed and Chilled 2 Eggs, Beaten 60 ml Ice Cold Water 1/4 Cup Sugar In a stand-up mixer using the paddle attachment, mix flour, butter and sugar until combined. Combine ice cold water and the beaten eggs and add to the flour mixture. Mix until you see a dough forming. Place dough on a lightly floured surface and kneed by hand until smooth. Wrap and place in the fridge for 30 minutes. When dough has rested, roll it out on a floured work surface to your desired thickness and place in a greased pie mold, trimming excess off the edges. Prick base of the dough with a fork. May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 21
PECAN FILLING
1/2 Cup Maple Syrup 1 Egg 1.5 Cups Brown Sugar 1/2 Cup Whipping Cream 1.5 Cups Pecans In a large bowl, mix the syrup, egg, brown sugar, cream and pecans. Pour into the pastry. If your filling needs more pecans, you can always add more on top. Then bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 35 minutes.
VANILLA CREAM 1 Vanilla Pod, Split and Scraped 2 Tbsp Vanilla Extract 500 ml Whipping Cream 1/4 Cup Sugar Zest of 1 Lemon Place all ingredients in a stand up mixer. Using the whisk attachment, whip until stiff peaks have formed. Add a dollop to the top of your pie and enjoy!
About the Chef: Mike Edgar graduated from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in the Culinary Arts. He stayed in Calgary, AB working at some of the city’s top restaurants. In 2007, he opened his own restaurant in Calgary’s east end. After eight years of being a chef there, Edgar decided to take a step back and left the industry to spend more time with his son. His son has now expressed an interest in learning his father’s skills and in horses simultaneously. 22 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW May/June 2022
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Homesteading 101
RAISING CHICKENS Chickens can help your family with food security, all the while fertilizing the soil and keeping pests at bay.
By
Nick Shipley
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s a result of the pandemic, backyard chicken raising has become a huge trend. For people with acreages, (or in the city), raising chickens has become one of the ways families can become selfsustainable. It also helps them answer their own worrying questions about the availability of staple items at grocery stores. There’s a lot to like about raising your own chickens. The eggs are a real temptation – often tastier and fresher than those purchased in stores. The shells, along with chicken feces, can be tossed and used in a compost pile. Chickens also make for great gardening companions. For most of the day, they entertain themselves picking at grass, worms, beetles and other insect pests. Additionally, some birds can also be used for meat consumption. All things combined, raising chickens coincides well with the horse lifestyle and some people find them to be a fun hobby.
Shipley’s “chicken tractor.” This coop has been engineered so that Shipley can move it across his pasture every few days, garnering his flock a steady supply of fresh grass. As the tractor is moved around, the chickens leave their nitrogen and phosphorus-rich manure behind them and no one area of Shipley’s pasture becomes overly denuded.
FIRST THINGS FIRST
Before diving into the world of raising chickens, there are a few things to consider. Depending on where you live, there may be some local country or town ordinances you’ll want to research. The last thing you want is to invest time and money into preparing for chickens, only to find out you won’t be able to have them! If you live in a town or city, check with your local bylaws to ensure that keeping chickens is allowed in your neighbourhood, or if there is a limit to the number of birds you can keep at once. For instance, the MD of Foothills in Alberta will allow up to ten, while the town of Okotoks, AB, will only allow three birds and no roosters. In the city of Calgary, AB, you need a license and must take a government course. Next, you must ensure you have the space for a henhouse or full-sized chicken coop. This area must hold feeder and water containers, a roosting area and a nest box for every three hens. A proper coop should be large enough that you can stand in it to gather eggs and shovel manure out comfortably. Plus, any housing must be sturdy enough to keep your chickens safe from predators. Chickens need food and water daily. Feed prices vary, depending on your location and the quality of feed – this might be something you want to price out before beginning your chicken venture. The materials to build and finish a coop and a run include wood, fencing
The breed of chickens determine the number of eggs they will lay in a year
materials and hardware. If you can’t do the build yourself, you must also factor in the cost of skilled labour. Remember, you will have to clean the coop out regularly, so all year long there will be manure to shovel. Also, if you go away on vacation, you will need someone to check on your birds. Welcome to farming.
FLOCK SIZE, SPACING AND EGGS
Chickens are social creatures, so you should plan to keep three to six birds at least. With this amount, you’ll always have a steady supply of eggs, since adult hens lay about two eggs every day on average. Hens will lay eggs through the spring, summer and into fall, as long as they have 12-14 hours of daylight. Expect to collect May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 25
TOP LEFT: In addition to all of their other benefits, chickens make great gardening companions! When gardening season has finished for the year, let them into your gardening space and watch then go crazy. They’ll uproot the stems and stalks of weeds, gobble up any damaged or overripe vegetables and eat weeds. TOP RIGHT: Some young chicks hatched at Hartell Homestead. BELOW: All chicken tractors are comprised of a few basic components: an enclosed nesting area, a chicken run covered with
wire mesh to keep predators out and a frame with wheels so it can be moved around.
eggs daily, or even twice a day. Chickens are most productive in the first two years of their lives. After that, egg production will slow, so you should plan for the future and think about replacing your flock with younger birds eventually. Young chicks can be bought from suppliers quite easily, or you can hatch your own if you have a rooster. The amount of space you need for your chickens ultimately depends on how many and which breed of bird you intend to raise. One medium-sized chicken needs at least three square feet of floor space inside the coop and 8-10 feet outdoors. The more space there is, the happier and healthier your chickens will be. Overcrowding contributes to disease, feather picking and boredom. The birds will need a place to spread their wings, which can include a sizeable outdoor run, or your entire backyard. Either way, the space must be fenced in, in order to keep your chickens in and predators out. And remember, predators include your own cats and dogs.
BREEDS & YOUR NEEDS
When it comes time to choose your chicken, there are more breeds than one might 26 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW May/June 2022
expect! Some of the things you might want to consider include the number and colour of eggs produced, the breed’s temperament, its noise level and its adaptability to confinement. If you can’t let your chickens range free, the confinement factor is important for a happy, healthy flock. Noise level really matters if you do not reside in the country. Some sources advise against mixing ages, but I’ve never had trouble with older birds picking on younger
ones, if they have appropriate space and enrichment. At my house we utilize a device called a “chicken tractor.” This is essentially a coop that can be moved around, so the flock constantly has access to fresh grass and doesn’t bare up any one piece of ground. Then, as I move the chicken tractor around, the birds eat up pests and leave their nitrogen and phosphorus-rich manure behind. WHR
CHICKEN MEAT BREEDS CORNISH CROSS
Most popular, fast growing but do have health concerns. Maturity 8-10 weeks Weight 5-8 lbs.
JERSEY GIANTS
Large meat birds, slow growth. Maturity 20 weeks Weight 11-13 lbs.
RED RANGERS
Big heavy birds, slower growth than Cornish but with less health issues. Maturity 11-14 weeks Weight 4-5 lbs.
EGG BREEDS WHITE LEGHORNS
Heavy laying hens, most used in commercial farms. Eggs: 280-300 year (white) Temperament: nervous Lays: 16-17 weeks
AMERAUCANA
(also known as an “Easter Egger,”) very popular for throwing coloured eggs.
Eggs: 250 year (colored) Temperament: broody Lays: 25-30 weeks
BARRED ROCK
Splashy, duel-colored chicken, big bodied and decent egg layers. Eggs: 210-280 year (brown) Temperament: mellow / calm Lays: 18-22 weeks
DUAL PURPOSE BREEDS RHODE ISLAND RED
BLACK AUSTRALORP
Eggs: 260-280 year Mature: 16-18 weeks Slaughter: 8 lbs.
EGGS: 260 YEAR MATURE: 20 WEEKS SLAUGHTER: 8-10 LBS.
SUSSEX
Eggs: 250-300 year Mature: 20 weeks Slaughter: 9-11 lbs.
PLANNING YOUR COOP The housing for your chickens can be as simple or as fancy as your imagination and budget permit. The basic criteria will be dictated by the birds
DECIDE ON THE SIZE You will need two square feet of floor space per chicken and one nest box for every three hens. Nest boxes should be approximately one square foot big. For larger breeds such as Jersey Giants, allow for an additional square foot of floor space per bird.
SKETCH YOUR COOP On paper, with measurements. It’s also helpful to mark the ground on your property where the coop will be erected, taking into consideration its location relative to the sun (southern exposure ensures greater warmth and sunlight.) Note nearby structures – will you attach the coop to your garage or barn? Keep in mind the need for a run, fenced or not and ensure it’s placed on high ground, to avoid flooding or mud problems.
INCLUDE A DOOR AND FLOOR A door can be as simple as a piece of plywood on a frame of 1x2s, with hinges and a simple latch. Ensure it is large enough for you to enter and exit easily with eggs in hand. A dirt floor is perfectly adequate. Another option is poured concrete, if your time and budget allow. Also consider whether or not you will incorporate electricity into your coop: a low watt bulb will prolong daylight during winter months and keep egg production figures constant.
COOP VENTILATION Ventilation is more important than insulation. Plan to have openings near the ceiling for air circulation. Chickens do enjoy moderate temperatures (around 12 degrees Celsius, however, they can handle cooler temperatures. Also plan to install a couple of 1.5 inch dowels across the upper part of the coop, to enable the chickens to roost off the floor at night. Once you’re ready to begin, bring your coop plans to the lumber yard. Ask for assistance to help you determine how much wood, materials, tools and other equipment you will need for the build. Plan to frame the chicken coop with 2x4s and use sheets of plywood for the walls. This can be a sheet of plywood covered with roof shingles, or simply a piece of sheet metal. A 5 x 20-foot run will keep a small flock (six to eight hens) happy. More space is better, if you have the room. If predators are a problem in your area, bury a layer of chicken wire six inches under both the coop and run in order to foil diggers like foxes, dogs and skunks. Mink and weasels can slip through standard two-inch wire. To keep them out, use of couple of two-inch layers offset or one-inch instead. Plug any holes in the coop walls as well. Your coop will also need waterers – one for every three or four chickens. A feed trough that is long enough to let all of your chickens feed at once is essential. If this is not possible, get two troughs. Wood shavings (pine), or straw, should bed the coop floor down in a six-inch layer, along with a few handfuls in each of the nest boxes. Change the bedding approximately once a month, or if it starts to appear “flat.” A chicken coop doesn’t need to be complicated, nor pretty. It just needs to house your chickens properly. For more information about Nick Shipley and the homesteading classes he offers, check out: www.hartellhomestead.com May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 27
RODEO ROAD TRIP Whether they’re steeped in history, or adding unique events, or just incredibly hospitable – we have cultivated a list of can’t-miss 2022 rodeos. By Jenn Webster
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89th annual
MOOSE MOUNTAIN
PRO RODEO Kennedy, SK
JULY 22 - 24, 2022
Friday, July 22
Slack 5 p.m. and Beer Gardens
Saturday, July 23
Sunday, July 24
Parade: 1 p.m. Demo Derby to follow parade Rodeo Performance: 5 p.m. Beer Gardens with DJ Saturday night
FREE CAMPING! ATM & Food Booth on location
RAYMOND STAMPEDE
BUCK LAKE STAMPEDE
This year is the 120th edition of the Raymond Stampede, an event that is proud to call itself “Home of the First Stampede in Canada.” The event has been a semi-pro rodeo for a long time but in 2022, it will be coming under the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) banner. Come for the historical Wild Horse Grand Entry and stay for a special performance by the Blood Tribe Dance Group.
Boasting a steak supper and pancake breakfasts, the Buck Lake Stampede kicks off with a parade and this year’s theme will be, “Salute to our Front Line Workers” Celebrating 90 years of Rodeo in 2022, there will special prizes for decorated bicycles, pony chuck wagons, chariot races and a Saturday evening performance by the Tracy Miller Band.
Raymond, AB • July 1-2, 2022
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Find them on Facebook.
(GUARANTEED PRIZE OF $2,000 FOR FIRST PLACE!)
Rodeo Performance
ADMISSION
Weekend Family Pass: $85 MOOSE MOUNTAIN PRO RODEO Adults: $20 Kid2022 s 6 - 17: $10 Kennedy, SK • July 22-24, 5 & Under: Free
Buck Lake, AB • July 9-11, 2022
www.bucklakestampede.com
9 a.m. Pancake Breakfast at Kennedy Friendship Centre 11 a. m. Cowboy Church Service at Rodeo Grounds 2 p.m. Rodeo Performance Demo Derby Finals to follow
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SATURDAY & SUNDAY PERFORMANCES
The 89th edition of Moose Mountain TRICK RIDING BYtheDARING DIVAS
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Mutton Busting & Wild Pony Races during Pro Rodeo is sanctioned byrodeo theintermission CPRA, the For more information contact Jill Lowe:Association 306-736-8967 Professional Rodeo Cowboys (PRCA) and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA).The event features a parade, trick riders, wild ponies and the highly anticipated demolition derby.
Find them on Facebook.
Buck lake, AB Armstrong, BC STrathmore, AB
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INTERIOR PROVINCIAL EXHIBITION & STAMPEDE Armstrong, BC August 31 - September 4, 2022
MANITOBA STAMPEDE & EXHIBITION
STRATHMORE STAMPEDE
Morris, MB • July 22-24, 2022
Strathmore, AB • July 29 - August 1, 2022
Manitoba’s only pro rodeo offers so much, in addition to some of the top names on the Canadian circuit. Kids can compete in mutton bustin’ or gymkhana events – ever heard of Bribe-a-horse 22? Then, the event’s sharing of Indigenous culture through the traditional teachings of beading, dancing, wildlife tanning and leather working is extremely educational for guests. Finally, shopping, a midway, live music and time lapse escape rooms add another level of entertainment.
Whenever you have rodeo events and chuckwagon races together, your event is an automatic hit. However, the 56th Strathmore Stampede is also home to Canada’s only Running with the Bulls! Approximately 80 runners will face three rounds of wild, untamed bulls. An inner circle of fencing is set up within the infield, creating a track. The objective for runners is to be the bravest, most daring and crowd-entertaining runner alongside the bulls.
www.manitobastampede.ca
www.strathmoreag.com
Ever been to a rodeo under the stars? It’s magical! In addition to the nightly rodeo, the Interior Provincial Exhibition & Stampede (IPE) also plays host to mini-chuckwagon races, an all-day music stage, midway, barn dance , agricultural awareness events, a farrier and blacksmith demo and the everpopular, West Coast Lumberjack show. www.armstrongipe.com
RAymond, AB
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Kennedy, Sk
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GENERATIONS OF FAITH, FAMILY & DEDICATION Cross Bar Ranch is a prime example of a family-run operation, grounded in kinship and strengthened by forward thinking. By BAR XP PHOTO – Kirk Prescott
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stablished in 1910, Cross Bar Ranch is a unique operation with a passion to prevail. Rich in history and backed by generations of experience, the family-run business is nestled in the Neutral Hills, north of Consort, Alberta. As the fifth generation of their family learns the ropes, Cross Bar Ranch (a long-standing cattle operation), has recently diversified to include bison. The Gattey family remains progressive and persistent, honouring a lifestyle and continuing to build a legacy that has forged forth for more than 112 years. At the age of 17, Alfred Gattey was looking for adventure and set sail from England, in 1907. Determined to become a rancher, Gattey landed in Montreal and travelled by train to Red Deer, Alberta. John Drummond Bartlett (a family connection), facilitated a meeting of Gattey and his son Roger Bartlett, who was involved in the cattle industry near Pine Lake, Alberta. A ranching apprenticeship ensued, and a business partnership began. In 1910, upon obtaining homestead rights to a half-section of free land, Gattey and Bartlett ventured east in a democrat buggy. Directed to the east end of Gooseberry Lake, the homesteaders’ search for suitable grazing land brought them to a free-flowing spring that was surrounded by opportunity. As Gattey noted, “Being close to a lake / spring water, logs from the coulees for corrals and buildings and natural shelter for the cattle,
all made me feel that the location was ideal.” Bartlett and Gattey began establishing Cross Bar Ranch immediately and the partnership flourished for ten years. In 1920, Gattey bought Bartlett out. Gattey insisted that he keep the Cross Bar brand, because they had agreed to call the homestead Cross Bar Ranch. As Gattey put it, “The sign of the cross was something to look up to.” Together with his wife Sue, Alfred continued ranching and naturally expanded the operation, both structurally and in commodity. In time, the ranch was owned and operated by Alfred’s son, Frank (Kelva), and later, his grandson, John (Cindy). Currently, John Gattey, along with his son Justin, daughter-in-law Abbie, and grandchildren, Jaxen and Kelby carry on a dedicated, ranching tradition. Blessed with a rich history and a solid work-ethic, the Gatteys make their home in the same yard as many of the original structures. Carrying forward the mindset of their ancestors, everyone works together and plays a role in the ranch’s viability. Cross Bar Ranch focuses on low-stress handling and their herds of both bison and cattle are quiet and content. Primarily hosting a commercial herd of Angus/Charolais cattle, Cross Bar Ranch pastures are adorned with a growing herd of majestic bison. While continuing with traditional
OPPOSITE PAGE: The Gattey family remains focused on quality livestock and low stress handling practices. Both their cattle and their bison roam vast pastures in the Neutral Hills, near Consort, Alberta.
A commemorative plaque stands before many of the original ranch buildings in the Gattey’s main yard.
TOP:
May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 31
Submitted from family archives, Alfred Pratt and Frank Gattey.
marketing strategies, the Gatteys offer direct sales, attend local markets, and supply several outlets with delectable eats. Nurturing the future of the operation, life-lessons that stem from ranching, begin at an early age. Both Jaxen and Kelby take an active role in ranch-tasks and their mentors facilitate an appreciation of a job done well, with a mind for safety. The recreational aspects of ranchlife meld naturally with the Gattey family. Both Justin and Jaxen enjoy roping, while Abbie and Kelby prefer barrel racing and pole bending. When the family has spare time (as little as that may be when ranching), they all enjoy fishing, golfing, and skiing. The Gattey family is skilled at blending work with farm-fun. They go about their days with a solid sense of humility, hard-work, and humour. Now spanning five generations, the operation thrives with a focus on faith, family, and dedication. As Abbie noted, “112 years later we, Justin and Abbie, alongside our kids, Jaxen (9) and Kelby (7), the fifth generation, still celebrate the achievements of Alfred, Frank, and John, among others. Their foresight, faith, strength, endurance and dedication turned an adventure into a lifetime accomplishment.” Q. Considering the evolution of Cross
Bar Ranch, what are some of the most notable changes that have taken place? What changes would you like to see in the future?
Submitted from family archives, Frank Gattey.
A. Cross Bar has always been an active participant in the livestock industry. It was mainly a beef operation in the early days and in the late 1950s, the feedlot was established. In 2019, we took a leap in another direction and decided to purchase a bison herd to diversify the operation. We are still very involved in the beef side of ranching, but now get to enjoy bison roaming our hills. Q. What fostered your transition to
bison and how has this changed your operation?
A. ’We were always intrigued by these majestic animals and how they are able to flourish on the Canadian prairies. We are always looking for new opportunities and felt the time was right in the marketplace. Bison have changed our operation in a few ways. They require their own handling system, as they will not fit into our cattle set-up. We also had to upgrade some of our perimeter fencing. Bison have a vertical jump of up to 6 feet! Q. How have you diversified your
marketing and delivering your endproduct?
A. On the beef side of the operation, we have primarily sold in a commercial market. 32 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW May/June 2022
LEFT: Cross Bar Ranch Bison Boxes are a popular choice for consumers. Contents are selected online and the options are incredibly tasty.
With the change in the way people shop for their food, we saw the opportunity to offer our bison products directly to the consumer. Many people are unfamiliar with bison and its benefits. Bison is an extremely lean, nutrient dense source of meat. In addition to its relatively high vitamin B content, bison is a good source of iron, omega-3 fats, as well as an excellent source of selenium and zinc. In December 2020, we started offering sample boxes. This allowed people to test a variety of cuts. Since then, we have expanded our product menu, started shipping, and supply restaurants and local stores.
not, if you have a plan, it’ll get derailed! So, what keeps us coming back for more? The opportunity to teach our kids what it means to work hard, care for animals, love the land and work together as a family. Some days, we long for a break. When we can’t get away, we find ourselves going for a family ride or touring the hills, sitting amongst the bison and simply watching the sunset.
Q. If you could offer advice to young
and upcoming ranchers, what would you share?
A. Agriculture has changed in many ways. Being up to speed on your financials and keeping a close eye on your cost of production is extremely important. Finding people to mentor and network with will be beneficial. There’s always something new to learn. WHR The fifth generation, Kelby and Jaxen Gattey, both enjoy all aspects of ranch life. From recreational roping to daily chores, they take part in it all.
Q. What are some of the hurdles that
you face, ranching bison? What are the benefits?
A. Ultimately bison are wild animals, some hurdles have been navigating what we can and cannot do when it comes to handling them. We take great pride in low stress handling practices but were quickly reminded that they are vastly different than cattle. There is always something to learn. There are several benefits to ranching bison. In the colder months, their metabolism slows down, making them more efficient with their feed. Moreover, bison calve easily. The calves are usually up and ready to travel within the hour. Considering our climate, bison can handle the ever-changing temperatures with ease Q. What inspires you as a ranching
family and what motivates you to keep going?
A. The ranching lifestyle is not for the faint of heart. There’s no 9-5 in ranching. There are no snow days (don’t get us started on thawing water troughs…) More often than May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 33
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Bill Marsh Photo All horses used in the Ranch Girl program must be sorrel, or a version of sorrel.
Q CALGARY STAMPEDE
RANCH GIRLS Stampede spirit, carried with a contagious smile.
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or many years, a talented group of dashing dames has graced the Calgary Stampede aboard stunning, sorrel geldings. Often referred to as “flag girls,” these hardworking equestrians serve as ambassadors for the Calgary Stampede brand, attending internal functions, corporate rodeos, special presentations and, of course, The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. For the duration of the Calgary Stampede, the Ranch Girls pack sponsor flags, lead championship laps, and assist with livestock in the arena, as required. Each rider brings a unique background to the group and, as a team, they enjoy the adrenaline, camaraderie, and challenges found in their role.
By BAR XP PHOTO – KIRK PRESCOTT Dating back earlier than 1976, the original ladies operated outside of the current title. The Ranch Girls program was coined between 1985 and 1988. The CS Ranch Girls range in number but many riders return, year after year. Clad in matching attire and lathered in sheen, these incredible horses and humans are a familiar face and a contagious energy in the rodeo arena. In past, the band of beautiful CS sorrels has returned annually. This year, things have changed. While a few of the chromed-up sorrels are set to return, others will enjoy life on the ranch, as several CS Ranch Girls will turn them into personal mounts. Calgary Stampede Employee, and former Ranch Girl Director, Catherine Laycraft noted
that, in her 26 years, the program allowed her the opportunity to develop lifelong friendships, working with some incredible women. Laycraft added, “…this latest shift of focus does not diminish the program. It is merely looking to better business practices as we consolidate by utilizing the existing partnerships these girls have with their own horses.” Current CS Ranch Girl Director, Navada Phipps, and the 2022 team are set to continue in their role, with grace, gusto, and gratitude. Prepare to smile as we share the thoughts of returning riders and showcase a few of the striking sorrels that complete this gritty yet, glamorous group. May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 35
JESSIE LISK Age: 34 Baker Creek, British Columbia
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Born and raised on a cattle ranch, in beautiful British Columbia, Lisk has held a love for horses since birth. Her parents, both from New Mexico, forged a small operation deep in the bush, with no power and only a creek for running water. Many years later, after moving to Calgary, AB, working in retail, serving as a flight attendant, obtaining a criminal justice degree, becoming a judicial clerk, and working for the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA), Lisk has returned home with aspirations of taking over her father’s ranch and running an online clothing boutique. Despite a small reprieve for post-secondary education, horses have always been a part of Lisk’s impressive resume. In fact, her first audition for the CS Ranch Girls brought her back to the arena, where she once aspired to barrel race. Accomplished in gymkhana and local rodeo pursuits, Lisk was just getting into team roping, when she found herself moving back to BC from the bright lights of Calgary. Lisk is entering her 11th year as a CS Ranch Girl and hasn’t missed a year since she started. She joked that she has officially reached, “senior” status, being the oldest in the group and having rode with the program the longest. Q. WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THE CS RANCH GIRLS? A. “My Dad wild horse raced at the Stampede for several years and I remember watching the girls fly around the arena. The flames, fireworks and running horses seemed like such an adrenaline rush. Plus, it seemed like they were held to a higher standard than just any flag girl. They were the Calgary Stampede Ranch Girls... I wanted to be one. Fast forward several years, after working at the CPRA and networking, I was able to meet some of the important people in the group. Also, along the way, I met some real Ranch Girls. Kateri Cowley took me under her wing and made sure I was on a good horse for try outs. She believed in me more than I believed in myself. I owe it to her. This will be my 11th year as a Ranch Girl.” Q. IN LIGHT OF THE SKILLSET REQUIRED TO PERFORM WITH THIS GROUP, WHAT SKILLS DID YOU BEGIN WITH AND WHAT HAVE YOU REFINED THROUGH PARTICIPATION?
who work really hard to make us look good, take care of us and the horses. I also appreciate our coaches, Peggy-Sue Moffat and Gail Cummings, who are there to support us each step of the way. I cannot say enough about all of them. I also want to mention Willard Cardinal. He and his crew take care of the horses, among many other things. They do a great job and we couldn’t do it without them.”
A. “The skill set I had coming into this group was basic horse knowledge. I had been to rodeos and events with my horses, but nothing to this degree. Also, I didn’t have much experience riding horses I didn’t know, or riding in such a large group. When I first started, there were at least 20 girls and horses. The skills I have refined through participation are teamwork, flexibility, and confidence. It is important to be flexible and work as a team when you have so many girls and horses. Also, anything can happen in a blink of an eye so it’s important to be prepared for those situations and be able to adapt. Finally, over the years I’ve become a more confident rider. I’ve learned to trust in my abilities and the horses I am on. Being a Ranch Girl has definitely contributed to the rider I am today.” Q. WHAT CHALLENGES ARE PRESENTED WITH THIS COMMITMENT AND WHAT BENEFITS DO YOU APPRECIATE AS A RIDER? A. “One of the challenges is being available for 12 days. We are required to attend two days of rehearsal and then we go straight into Stampede. Also, the weather can be really good, really hot or really wet. It’s important to be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at us. The weather also plays a role in what level of care our horses need from us as well. “The benefit that I appreciate as a rider is all the people involved with the Ranch Girls. There are a lot of behind-the-scenes people
Q. PLEASE SHARE YOUR TOP THREE MEMORIES AS A CS RANCH GIRL? A. “I’ve been a part of some pretty amazing years with Stampede, like the Centennial, and the year of the flood, but the highlight of my Ranch Girl career is probably the year that I carried the Canadian Flag for the anthem. It was a cool experience. I was honoured to do so. I also got to ride one of the greats that year – Garfield. This was one of the last years that a Ranch Girl got to carry the Canadian Flag. “Another experience that never gets old is Championship Sunday. I’ve been in the arena chasing out steers/calves, and I have been on stage when a championship is won. Even though I’m not winning the $100,000, the feeling and energy, in the arena and on stage, is unreal. It gives me goosebumps every time. “Another one of my favourite years was the Centennial. It was pretty neat to be a part of the 100th Calgary Stampede and it was an honour to be a part of this big milestone. This was the year we got to hang up our sparkly red shirts for iconic Florence LaDue outfits! Q. IF YOU COULD SHARE INSIGHT WITH SOMEONE INTERESTED IN JOINING THE CS RANCH GIRLS, WHAT WOULD THAT BE? A. “Anyone who is interested in joining, should just do it! Don’t get me wrong, being a Ranch Girl isn’t for everyone, but for those that it is, you won’t regret it. It isn’t always easy, but it is always fun. You get to work with amazing people, ride good horses, and be part of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. While there are risks involved, it’s rewarding when you have a perfect grand entry/sponsor lap. It is important to be confident in your ability, because a whole group of girls and horses are counting on you. If you trust yourself and the horse you are riding, it’s a great experience that you won’t get anywhere else.” May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 37
KATIE CONNOLLEY Age: 28
Okotoks, Alberta
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No stranger to cheering crowds, action packed areas, and fast-moving horses, Connolley, has an impressive list of accomplishments involving horses. Originally an Onoway, AB, cowgirl, Connolley has been riding with the CS Ranch Girls for four years but since the age of nine, she’s been drawn to anything equine related. Connolley has backed horses around the globe and performed as far away as Germany. Trick riding is her primary pursuit, but Connolley has also worked as a wrangler on movie sets, competed in numerous amateur rodeos, and experimented with a variety of disciplines that have cultivated her expertise as a well-rounded trainer. Connolley began performing at the age of 16 and has even ridden a Holstein steer, as part of a comedy act, for the Mane Event, in Red Deer, AB. She flourishes in a fast-paced environment and her calm demeanor shines in her performance and personal pursuits. When starting colts and working with client horses, Connolley is professional and proficient. Accomplished in grand entry performances, Connolley brings a contagious smile and courageous charge to the CS Ranch Girls group. Q. WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THE CS RANCH GIRLS? A. “I started with the Ranch Girls in 2018. Originally, I knew some of the girls from riding at the Canadian Finals Rodeo (CFR) with them. I had also watched from the crowd as spectator, at Stampede. Watching the girls fly out that center alley to split the fire, made me immediately want to be a part of the action. I made it a bucket list item. One day, I would not only get to run with them but also lead the charge! The following year, I joined the crew, eager to perform at the Calgary Stampede and other events.” Q. IN LIGHT OF THE SKILLSET REQUIRED TO PERFORM WITH THIS GROUP, WHAT SKILLS DID YOU BEGIN WITH AND WHAT HAVE YOU REFINED THROUGH PARTICIPATION? A. “Fortunately for me, I already had the experience of performing in front of large crowds, as well as riding many different, unknown horses. I came in not having that initial fear of what it would be like to run out in front of that many people, on an animal
you had most likely met, just days before. I appreciated having the experience as I could help the newer girls who may have felt a bit nervous. Something I have enjoyed refining is learning to be more confident with my abilities and stepping up when a challenge presents itself. I used to be quite shy and being a part of this group has truly helped me push past a lot of those insecurities and anxiety.” Q. WHAT CHALLENGES ARE PRESENTED WITH THIS COMMITMENT AND WHAT BENEFITS DO YOU APPRECIATE AS A RIDER? A. “It can be difficult working with such a large group, but this group makes such an effort to ensure it is an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. From the girls riding, to the barn crew taking care of the horses, everyone is made to feel important and included. As a rider, I appreciate all the action behind the scenes and the hard work that goes into caring for the animals and equipment. It’s not just us girls out there. It’s our whole team that we are riding for and representing. I feel incredibly honoured to be chosen to be a part of it all.”
smiles, no matter what is thrown at them. I love being a part of this group and have made friends in it and because of it that, will not only last a lifetime but exist outside of our Ranch Girl duties. I’ve had the opportunity to ride many different CS horses and hold different positions in the lineup, but the final two days of 2021 was probably my biggest highlight. I was presented the opportunity to lead for the opening! I have performed at many large rodeos and events, all over the world, but I have to say nothing comes close to that feeling of being one of the first to burst through that gate, at the Calgary Stampede. A final memory would have to be leading the victory laps. The energy that comes from the rider, having just won their round, is something that is infectious and inspiring. You feel like you’ve just won! All the memories that I make with this crew are amazing. I am so grateful that I took the opportunity when it came around.” Q. IF YOU COULD SHARE INSIGHT WITH SOMEONE INTERESTED IN JOINING THE CS RANCH GIRLS, WHAT WOULD THAT BE? A. “Never stop learning and pushing to be better and remain kind in all you do. If you have a dream, work for it and don’t give up when there’s a set-back or things become difficult.”
Q. PLEASE SHARE YOUR TOP THREE MEMORIES AS A CS RANCH GIRL? A. “Honestly, there are too many to count. I have never been a part of a group of women who can come together like this, rain or shine, and put on a show with unfaltering May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 39
TIFFANY NOLAN Age: 33
Cochrane, Alberta
40 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW May/June 2022
Entering her fifth year as a CS Ranch Girl, Tiffany Nolan is nothing but smiles. Nolan, an Alberta girl, has been riding horses her entire life and remains grateful for the opportunity to roll with this illustrious crew of horsewomen. Originally from Grande Prairie, AB, Nolan currently operates a mixed farming operation and fencing company, with her boyfriend, near Cochrane, AB. She hails from a family deeply rooted in farming and feels that all aspects of our western heritage are both hard work and a blessing. In her “spare time,” Nolan enjoys training colts and volunteering at local rodeos with flags and grand-entry organization. Nolan’s love of speed and steeds has seen her through numerous equine pursuits, including a drill team, gymkhanas, rodeo royalty and parades. Enamored with team roping, Nolan aspires to fuel her passion by hitting several jackpot series, this summer, and becoming a better breakaway roper. Horses remain a significant part of Nolan’s resume and her dream to ride in the Calgary Stampede arena has come true. Nolan looks back on fond memories of riding as a family and has truly elevated her horse related habits, running with the Calgary Stampede Ranch Girls. Watch for her stunning smile as she blazes a trail with her fellow riders! Q. WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THE CS RANCH GIRLS? A. “I have been fortunate to be a Ranch Girl for five years. It would have been my sixth if we hadn’t missed a year due to the pandemic. With the help of my coach, I moved to Cochrane over 14 years ago, originally to join the CS Showriders. The junior drill team for Stampede. I met some of my fellow Ranch Girls on the team there, as well. Years later we’re together again. Down the road, I continued to volunteer for stampede, after my CS Showrider days, with the Light Horse Committee and the Old Time Rigs for Stampede. I met one of the coaches of the CS Ranch girls, while running flags for CFR, in 2016. I tried out for the team and was fortunate enough to join. It’s been a dream come true. I had always admired the girls running through the smoke and fire, at the opening and had always wanted to do it. It’s been so much fun. What makes it special is all the amazing girls I’ve gotten to ride with along the way. I tell people it’s the best job I’ve ever had. I would do it all year if it was possible.”
Q. IN LIGHT OF THE SKILLSET REQUIRED TO PERFORM WITH THIS GROUP, WHAT SKILLS DID YOU BEGIN WITH AND WHAT HAVE YOU REFINED THROUGH PARTICIPATION? A. “I met a local drill team. We did a horse drill with flags, coordinated with 20 others, to music. This group performed at all the local rodeos in the Peace Country and our home rodeo of the Grande Prairie Stompede. It was special because, for a time, I was riding with my mom. I think of those beginnings with such love. During that time, I held the title of Miss Grande Prairie Stompede Princess 2006. This was the beginning of learning confidence and riding in front of big crowds. Before becoming a Ranch girl, I volunteered at both local and pro rodeos to carry flags. All of these things combined, supported my skills as a Ranch Girl. During my time as Ranch Girl, I’ve really learned to have confidence in myself. It’s really been a gift” Q. WHAT CHALLENGES ARE PRESENTED WITH THIS COMMITMENT AND WHAT BENEFITS DO YOU APPRECIATE AS A RIDER? A. “What I have come to appreciate from being a Ranch Girl is how much work goes on, behind the scenes. All the hours and prep that go into just our contribution to the show is incredible. The amazing ranch staff keep the horses looked after and ridden, out on the ranch. Many people don’t know that the horses we use belong to the Calgary Stampede. During the rest of the year, they get used for all aspects of ranch life. It truly takes a village and I’m really very grateful to be a part of it.
Q. PLEASE SHARE YOUR TOP THREE MEMORIES AS A CS RANCH GIRL? A. “My top would be the first day of being an official ranch girl and the opening ceremonies. My heart was beating so hard in my chest. At the same time, I could feel my horse Magics’ heart beating, just as hard, underneath me. That moment, getting to run out to Bob Tallman saying, ‘Welcome the Calgary Stampede Ranch Girls; Let’s ride!’ was incredible. The gates opened, smoke shot up, fire blazed and we ran. I don’t think I took a breath the whole time we rode around the arena. I couldn’t wipe that smile off my face. I remember parking, catching my breath, and getting to see the massive crowd cheering. It was amazing. I don’t think I’ll ever forget it. Each opening is special, but the first one was particularly special for me because my goal became a reality, in that moment. I was truly lucky to have the amazing horse, Magic, for my first year. He really took care of me, the whole ten days. My second would be doing victory laps with all the winners for almost all ten days. We’re rodeo fans too and getting to celebrate those wins with them is unrivalled. The crowds are always amazing with their energy. My third would be when Katie and I ran flags for the barrel racers’ victory lap, and we got to meet and greet Diplo. It was funny and memorable because, at the time, we didn’t know who he was. He was hard to miss wearing this amazing rhinestone red and blue blazer and a matching suit. People all over the grandstand were taking pictures. It was quite a scene. We asked for a photo while his entourage was all around. It was pretty funny. We googled him later and realized how famous he actually was.” Q. IF YOU COULD SHARE INSIGHT WITH SOMEONE INTERESTED IN JOINING THE CS RANCH GIRLS, WHAT WOULD THAT BE? A. “Find a coach or a mentor to help you reach your goals. Volunteer to run flags at your local rodeos. Ride as many horses as you can. Get comfortable with different horses and different speeds. Come try out and join us! It’s special because of the amazing girls that you get to ride with. Most of my favorite people are either ranch girls or people I have met through being a Ranch Girls at Stampede. It’s truly an honour to be able to participate with the Ranch Girls.” May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 41
SCOTT
HARD
Y
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BACK TO NATURE APPAREL This image of a band of Wildies were photographed by Stan and Keltie Masters, west of Sundre, AB. “Three bands of wild horses had congregated together that day, with over 5060 of them there. The colts were lying in the wildflowers, the mares were grazing and the stallions were fighting. I had never seen so many Wildies together! It was awesome! We went back again the next day and drove for miles and never saw another one!” tells Keltie.
42 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW May/June 2022
WIND THE by WHR Writers
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May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 43
ABOVE: Model wearing Scott Hardy. RIGHT: Back To Nature pillow.
A
rt is appreciated in many different ways. In the western culture, we find it in the detailing of our bits and spurs, fashion, or the pieces we admire on the walls of our home. Art plays a large role in our identity and the way we see the world. Art is additionally good for our mental well-being. From alleviating stress, to helping us emotionally, and allowing for the creation of wealth, there are numerous benefits in owning and appreciating fine artwork. In this article, we introduce you to four Alberta artists / artisans who are developing new mediums and dedicated to preserving our western heritage.
BACK TO NATURE APPAREL Look good. Feel good. Do good! For Keltie Masters and her husband Stan of Olds, AB, stepping onto the sub-arctic tundra near Churchill, MB, was like turning a page to a perfect canvas. After deciding they should go see the polar bears on the trip of a lifetime, Stan announced he needed a new camera, “…because when he photographed the bears, he wanted to see their retinas!” That trip happened in 2012 and the experience of seeing both the polar bears and the impact of their declining environment, left 44 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW May/June 2022
a profound impact on Stan and Keltie. Since then, they knew they needed to help make a difference in preserving the delicate balance of nature and the human impact. “By interacting with nature, spending time in it, seeing it, and appreciating it, we all can reap the benefits of feeling happier and healthier as a result,” says Stan. “If we can help people reconnect with nature, it’s not just good for them, but it’s great for the environment. The result is a reciprocal relationship because the more people care for and appreciate the positive impact nature has on their lives, the more they will want to protect it.” Alone, their wildlife images are stunning. However, Stan and Keltie were determined to find a new medium that could help them share their photographs in a unique way. The couple turned their passion for photography into a wearable art form, that also supports wildlife rehabilitation.
Through their Back to Nature Apparel, the Masters offer their amazing wildlife images on comfortable high-quality leggings for infants through to adults. They also offer high waisted yoga leggings, as well as plush, velveteen cushion covers. Then, they expanded their line to include silk scarves, canvas handbags and elegant, poly chiffon kimono robes. They have also incorporated their images onto zippered pouches and bamboo-lined beanies, all with the help of a Canadian company. Images include wild horses, bears, owls, moose, elk, lynx, foxes, eagles, wolves and spirit bears – and new designs continue to be developed every day. The Back to Nature Apparel not only captures the detail of Stan and Keltie’s images, but the garments themselves are high quality products that the Masters are proud to offer. Additionally, 10% of all their profits are donated to a variety of wildlife rehabilitation, rescue and conservation programs. In addition, they offer a unique fundraising opportunity for clubs and organizations to help support their programs. That way, customers can truly feel good about their Back to Nature Apparel, knowing their purchases are making a difference. To learn more about Back to Nature Apparel, visit the website at www. backtonatureapparel.com or email them at mybacktonature@gmail.com.
September 30 October 1, 2022 NATIONAL COWBOY & WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM
SCOTT HARDY In his early days as a silversmith, Scott Hardy of Longview, AB, built bits and spurs, however a visit to the workshop of an important mentor, prominent western silversmith Al Pecetti, motivated the young Hardy to focus on one path. Pecetti introduced him to Al Tietjen, a well-known bit and spur maker, who gave Hardy a tour of his workshop. Afterwards, Pecetti offered this advice: “If you truly want to be the best you can be in one of these trades, you owe it the respect to follow it to the end, so pick one and become the best you can be at it.” “I picked silversmithing within a few days, and from that day on I’ve thought a lot about that, and if I had still been doing the two trades I would be nowhere close to what I’ve accomplished in the silverwork I’m doing,” said Hardy, who works out of his Longview, Alberta shop. “These trades deserve respect.” This perspective has served Hardy well during his four decades as a silversmith. The fifth-generation stockman was raised in Saskatchewan and came to Alberta in the 1970s, and he began working with silver to supplement ranching. He has created silverwork for celebrities and working cowboys alike, and his work has been exhibited around the world to great acclaim. His achievements are extensive, from receiving the Will Rogers Award for Engraver of the Year from the Academy of Western Artists in 2001, to being selected to represent western heritage and craftsmanship at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C. in 2006. An image of the special buckle he designed to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Calgary Stampede became the first buckle to appear on a Canada Post stamp. Hardy’s philosophy of sharing the elegance of the West through silverwork aligns with his involvement as a founding member of the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association (TCAA). Established in 1998, this group of artisans is devoted to the preservation and perpetuation of bit and spur making, Western silversmithing, saddlemaking and rawhide braiding. “I don’t know if the people truly understand the troubles that the industry (cowboy arts) is in right now, and if they don’t realize it soon, it could be too late,” says Hardy.
Buckle, Scott Hardy, Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition & Sale 2022
Reservations nationalcowboymuseum.org/tcaa Proxy Information contact trent riley at (405) 839-7097 or triley@nationalcowboymuseum.org.
Mr. and Mrs. Kraig Kirschner
May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 45
LEFT: McKenna Prather acrylic paint on hand-made canvas. RIGHT: Tim Hiller welded rose.
The problem is one of technology advancement cut with a general decline of interest in the cowboy arts. Production pieces have simply become better and cleaner, and that leaves the true artisans, between the proverbial hammer and anvil: cheap, but affordable production work and a softening cowboy arts market. “If we don’t create a market out there with collectibles, where a young maker can come in and get knowledge and see a place to end up, like the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma [home of the annual TCAA Exhibition and Sale], where the work is recognized not only as functional working cowboy gear, but also art. When it’s taken to that level, it’s easier for a young artist to see a viable future in it.” To learn more about Scott Hardy and his work, visit his website at: www. scotthardy.com
MCKENNA PRATHER
In 2018, McKenna Prather of Calgary, AB, graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Alberta University of the Arts, and began freelancing full-time in 2019. That following summer, she became the Homes by Avi 2019 Stampede Rotary Dream Home Artist. “My work is inspired by Canadian wildlife, farm animals, flora and fauna, fancy cakes and cozy objects,” she says. Using acrylic paint on hand-made stretched canvas, Prather builds up layers of paint in a collaged fashion, painting some elements realistically, flat or patterned. Each painting is then embellished with embroidery, where she lays the canvas down and stitches into the painting to add final texture. “My painting style is influenced by folk art and hand-made crafts like quilting and needle-point. I look up to artists like Mary Pratt and Maude Lewis, aiming to capture Mary’s sense of light and colour, and Maude’s whimsicality and story-telling ability.” Prather says she is most inspired by her family of artisans and makers as they are her biggest supporters and the reason she became an artist. “My family in Newfoundland and Alberta is comprised of painters, knitters, cooks and craftsmen. Everything that they make is with the intent of creating a cozy, happy home,” she explains. Cozy and happy is how she wants each of her paintings to feel – sparking joy when a client sees it in their home. For more information about her work, check out: www.mckennaprather.com 46 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW May/June 2022
TIM HILLER
With generations of gritty welding talent behind him, Tim Hiller has taken the art of blacksmithing to a new frontier. At his hand, horseshoes and metal artifacts seamlessly transform into life-like, works of art. Each creation has a story to tell and Hiller, a cowboy craftsman with vision, has the gift of bringing his captivating creations to life. Based out of Hay Lakes, AB, Hiller has been a welder for most of his life. When oil field fabrication faded, the spotlight fell on Hiller’s skill for sculptures. He recreated an income with encouragement from family and friends and his passion for blacksmithing took flight. Hiller’s attention to detail is second to none and his creativity is endless. He stands strong in his statement, “We can create anything YOU can imagine and then some.” From rotating saddle stands to intricate, equine representations, Hiller finds joy in projects of all forms and functions. While his work varies in size and stature, Hiller’s projects remain unique in comparison and incredibly rich in detail and design. Available for commissions, Hiller welcomes clients who contact him with their own ideas or visions for his metal work. Much of his work are custom-made pieces, designed for specific places like the space above a client’s bar, or on a mantle. He has also created many one-of-a-kind driveway ornaments – the kind of piece that makes a brilliant first impression for a property. Hiller’s favourite consignment piece to date, was crafted for a neighbouring farmer. Looking for a birthday gift for his wife, Hiller’s friend gave him free rein on a project that would become a horse running through their garden wall. The birthday surprise was incredibly well received, and the owner called the piece, “Aodhan,” which is Gaelic for “Little Fire.” Hiller attests that the name is fitting for the energy that exudes from the piece and clearly the art of blacksmithing itself. As in each of Hiller’s pieces, the attention to detail, the movement and the energy in this sculpture are surreal. Even in the dark, splashed with illumination, “Aodhan,” is captivating and beautiful. For more information about Hilller’s artwork visit his website, www.ironarts.ca. WHR
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For centuries, civilizations have pursued water to build. The development of steam locomotives were no exception. This Iron Horse was rescued by an equine when it ‘ran out of steam.’ Photo courtesy of the Adirondack Experience.
WONDERTROUGH Alberta’s Largest Water Trough
I
n an area considered for centuries to be inhospitable and unsuited to agriculture, and in particular, farming, the prairies of southern Alberta have challenged pioneers since their earliest settlement. During the 1840s, the government sent John Palliser and a group of scientists to explore the western provinces, examine its agricultural viability and “test the waters.” His report was not favourable. Palliser 48 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW May/June 2022
By DEBBIE MACRAE condemned the country for its short growing season, “worthless” soil, short grass, and early frost. His address was completed during recurring drought – and successful crop production was unforeseen. By the 1880s, the Canadian Pacific Railways was steaming across the province, and their main line ran through Medicine Hat, Calgary, and Banff. Ten years later it linked with the railways in the United States, through a line from Medicine Hat
to Lethbridge. It brought travelers; potential settlers, tourists, developers, and curiosity seekers. With a voracious thirst for water, the CPR steam engines were fueled by coal shovelled into their fireboxes by a “fireman.” The water was carried in the tender, a water tank surrounding the coal bin. The water flowed into the locomotive by an injection system. As it was heated by the firebox, the water turned to steam rising to the top of a boiler,
h building pressure. The engineer used a throttle system to regulate the amount of steam being directed to the pistons. Once inside the piston, the steam expanded, pushing in opposing directions. The end of the stroke allowed the steam to escape through an exhaust port. The process was then reversed and repeated in the other direction causing piston action by the valves. The push or pull of the pistons, connected to the drive shafts, provided the momentum to power the locomotive. As the steam was exhausted through the smokestack, a vacuum or a draft was produced, pulling air back into the firebox to create combustion of the coal and provide continuous production of steam. In a province 1.5 times as large as the state of California, and 95% as large as the state of Texas, with over 600 lakes, seven major river basins or watersheds, and approximately 17,000 glaciers shared with the province of British Columbia, one would not expect Alberta to suffer the consequences of major drought or water shortage. Unfortunately however, 80% of the water supply originates in the northern part of the province, while 80% of the consumption is in the south. In order to supply the railroad with the water required for their journeys, the Canadian Pacific Railway had to “import” the water and built water towers at intervals only kilometers apart. (The 1963 American sitcom, Petticoat Junction, situated in Hooterville, was based on similar historic octagonal water towers built to supply the railways.) Consuming roughly 3,785 litres of water (1,000 US Gallons) every 24 kilometers (15 miles), the requirement for water was critical. With the decline of the fur trade and fears of northern expansion into the prairies by the United States, the leaders of British North America continued to explore the agricultural potential of the western prairies. Along with the railway, the Northwest Mounted Police presence in Alberta, coupled with a need to provide farm produce and dairy supplies, reinforced the need to develop viable agricultural techniques and water supplies to support the growth. As the need for coal and increased railway links progressed, the government often awarded contractors with land grants. However, without settlers to purchase that land, the payment was worthless. The critical element to attracting settlers was water and the need to develop suitable irrigation for farming and agricultural improvement. While John A. Macdonald’s government had promised that the west would be flooded
Removing aquatic growth from West Bantry Canal, July 1923.
Construction of Alberta’s largest aqueduct.
Considered by the Engineering Centennial to be one of Alberta’s “Ten Engineering Milestones” in 1987, the Brooks, Alberta, Aqueduct commenced construction in the spring of 1912, and was completed in the fall of 1914. May/June 2022 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 49
The Brooks, Alberta Aqueduct today.
with colonists, that promise never materialized, and the suggestion that irrigation was a requisite was thought to be inhibitive – therefore any requests from the local regional governments for assistance virtually fell on deaf ears. Irrigation became a dirty word. After a long period of severe drought which demoralized frontier farmers in southern Alberta, the federal government began to pay attention to their plight, reconsidering the previous policy. An irrigation strategy was drawn up by William Pearce of the Department of the Interior and a year later, J.S. Dennis, Chief Inspector of Surveys, was summoned to investigate irrigation systems throughout the western US states to provide supporting recommendations for new legislation. At that juncture, several events occurred, almost simultaneously, driving the irrigation momentum. Wheat prices had been declining in the early 1890s; however, the discovery of gold in Africa halted their decline. Settlers who had previously been gobbling up the free land in the US turned their gaze to the Canadian west as options ran out further south. New wheat varieties were being developed to tackle the impact of the early frost. Wheat pools, el50 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW May/June 2022
evators and grain ships enhanced grain transportation methods and the prairies became a magnet for grain farmers. Arable land increased the demand for irrigation and fueled a new era of optimism and economic buoyancy. One of the drivers behind the irrigation mindset was William Pearce, who developed the Calgary Irrigation Company. Working for the Canadian government between the 1880s and 1890s, his was a strong voice of advocacy. The north-west Irrigation Act of 1894 set out how rivers could be diverted, for what purpose, and how much could be used. Water rights had to be purchased. Legislation was introduced to entice the private sector to fund large water projects which would support significant hectares of land. Pending final payment for building the iron ribbon across the country, the Canadian government offered the CPR the opportunity to take a lump-sum payment in land tracts.
Previously lukewarm to the idea, with an influx of settlers and the potential to capitalize on land profit and settlement, they turned their sights to undeveloped land between the Bow and Red Deer rivers along the mainline between Calgary and Medicine Hat. Developing their own irrigation block required diversion of water from the Bow River to 55,000 hectares of semi-arid land in order to turn short grassland into fertile farmland. The project would eventually encompass over three million acres of land. The concept involved creating a “River in the Sky” – a “mega” water trough. Considered by the Engineering Centennial to be one of Alberta’s “Ten Engineering Milestones” in 1987, the Brooks, Alberta, Aqueduct commenced construction in the spring of 1912, and was completed in the fall of 1914. It became part of the Eastern Irrigation District in conjunction with an-
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other major engineering feat in the area; the Bassano Dam, which production chronicled a period of four years. The concept was unheard of previously. A river in the sky that required an elevated canal stretching over three kilometres across a wide, shallow valley; an innovative technique to channel the water down and under the railroad track and back up again – in order to eliminate a costly track relocation; construction of the longest concrete structure of its kind in the world; and implementation of an inverted siphon to bring the water back up to grade after diverting the flow. Like soldiers marching off at the onset of the second world war, pillars of the aqueduct appeared on the horizon. Forms, rebar and concrete; blood, sweat and tears; engineering, innovation and determination – all partnered to create a masterpiece of technology previously inconceivable on the prairie frontier. In the spring of 1915, the aqueduct commenced its service at a time when the world was engaged in its greatest conflict. Canada’s breadbasket was crucial, and prairie farmers set to work carving canals, tilling the land, and planting seed. And they flourished. But the problems weren’t over. It was difficult to get the rate of flow in the canal without losing precious water to spillage. Friction slowed the rate and prevented the water from moving fast enough to continue
through the aqueduct. Side swirls and eddies caused erosion of the earthen canal banks, and maintenance was an ongoing process. Warm temperatures, sunlight and water created an ambient environment for plant growth and weeds thrived, creating the need to monitor and clean the bowl surface with chains. Ditch riders were engaged to check water flow, scan for plant growth, inspect for seepage and repair leaks. The costs of maintenance and repair escalated, and in 1935 the Brooks Aqueduct was turned over to the Eastern Irrigation District. After 63 years, with replacement of more than 50% of its concrete, and transition to a larger, more modern, ancillary canal, the aqueduct was abandoned in 1979. In its lifetime, it carried an estimated volume of 10 Billion cubic meters of water – enough to fill Lake Louise 324 times. Its original cost was $650,000 compared to the $7.6 Million dollars required to upgrade its system between 1974 and 1979. A marvel of engineering, it became a miracle of agriculture in an ecosystem where Mother Nature’s generosity is often lacking. And the Prediction of Palliser? Well, it is now the Pride and strength of the Prairies – Alberta agriculture; in every capacity; greenhouse, farming, ranching, floriculture and research. The difference – was Alberta’s greatest water trough. The original aqueduct and siphon still remain, and have been designated as a National Historic site, eight kilometres southeast of Brooks, just off the TransCanada Highway. WHR
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7
ways TO WEAR A WILD RAG
Photography by Tara McKenzie Fotos Model is Darby-rae Crouch All wild rags by Ranch Life Wild Rags www.ranchlifewildrags.com All jewelry by William Winsnes www.barwwsilversmith.ca Shot on location at 94 Take the Cake Okotoks, AB.
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CANADIAN PRO RODEO 36” SCARF (exclusive Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame Wild Rag). (Left hand) CARNELIAN STONE RING with a slow twist band. ROSARITA BAR Pendant necklace, set in sterling silver. (Right hand) THE SHANNON SET RING, turquoise mountain-mined in Kingman, Arizona. OPPOSITE PAGE:
THIS PAGE:
POPPY REMUDA, with black fringe.
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THE CROSS IRON RAMBLER, black fringe scarf as a wrap-around. White Buffalo Bar Pendant necklace.
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THE RUST MARBLE, 54” wild rag tied in two places (around the neck and at the waist) and worn as a blouse.
THE EARL REMUDA, Highland Steer vest with white fringe. (Right hand) Sterling Silver White Water turquoise ring, with copper rope border.
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WHITE BUFFALO BAR Pendant necklace (bottom). Rosarita Bar Pendant necklace, set in sterling silver. TURQUOISE BAR Pendant necklace. (Right hand) Turquoise ring that can be worn alone, or as a stacker.
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THE CACTUS RAMBLER, white fringe scarf as a wrap-around. (ABOVE): RIDE WILD RAG, 4” scarf worn as a necktie. (BELOW): THE BUMBLE BEE JASPER RING is a stone meant to cultivate positive energies and protect against the negatives. (BOTTOM LEFT): THE DEB RING, (rare old stock, Cloud Mountain turquoise) ring as a hair piece, and THE SHANNON SET turquoise earrings, mountain-mined in Kingman, Arizona.
CLOCKWISE (LEFT):
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Backforty g
Long May She Rain by Lee McLean Rain. Not only are we relieved of our fear of fire, life is brought back to the soil. Frighteningly, our focus narrows and our lives become bleak without it. We are reminded that even though we have our iPhones and maybe even Netflix, Mother Nature is still firmly in charge of our days. A memory of the 1980s. We hear drops on the tin roof of the barn and excited like children, run out, only to find thousands of grasshoppers coming in for a landing. Little things like an hour spent fixing a broken hinge, or polishing the dash of the chore truck, do not happen because there are no rainy days. Seven, then eight years somehow roll by without one single afternoon nap, because it is too wet to work. We forget about soft, gray days when rain pelts the window and nothing more is expected of you than to settle onto the couch, feeling rich because you need only a blanket and a good book. Remembering the stories of old-timers who lived through the Depression, I know that the drought of the ‘80s has changed my generation, too. Now, while nobody in our house is actually saying so, we worry that those years have come back to haunt us. First thing each morning, all eyes scan the arch over the mountains, willing those clouds to hold the promise of rain. We wonder if we can possibly stand another day of that wind, for it is apparent that the old shake roof on our house cannot. “Oh, but we had such a nice little shower yesterday!” cajole friends from the city. They are, in their innocence, only trying to help.
automatically straggle off to the coming of another winter with precious little hay. We imagine squelching through ankle-deep corrals, our rubber boots pulling off in the sucking mud. Colourful language and laughter. Yellow slickers dripping dry, hanging at the ready in the back porch…
Those who ride, who run cows, who have work to do a-horseback, know all too well that without long soaking days of rain, we’ll have no grass. Our thoughts
Clouds are beginning to gather. Tonight, should the rain begin pattering on the roof of my attic bedroom, I will lie awake with the joy of it. I will.
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