Fort Lewis College

Fort Lewis College breeds Hereford cattle in Hesperus, CO, La Plata County and the Four Corners near Durango. It participates in American Hereford Association registry efforts and maintains regular screenings for genetic traits and herd health. Calves graze on managed pastures and benefit from low-stress handling practices aimed at promoting calm dispositions and robust growth. Aligned with its agricultural curriculum, the herd provides students with hands-on experience in breeding and livestock management.

Bloodlines emphasize maternal strength, calving ease and efficient feed conversion, reflecting the breed’s traditional qualities. Facilities include open corrals and shelter barns, ensuring year-round comfort in Colorado’s variable climate. Feeding protocols combine pasture grazing with supplemental minerals and protein sources to support growth stages and reproductive health. Animal welfare is overseen by experienced staff who oversee daily health checks and coordinate veterinary partnerships to address emerging needs promptly.