Stevenson's Diamond Dot Cattle Company: A Legacy of Excellence in the Montana Plains
Nestled in the heart of the fertile Judith Basin in Central Montana, Stevenson’s Diamond Dot Cattle Company stands as a testament to the dedication, resilience, and passion of Clint and Adana Stevenson.
Stevenson’s Diamond Dot Cattle Company: A Legacy of Excellence in the Montana Plains
Nestled in the heart of the fertile Judith Basin in Central Montana, Stevenson’s Diamond Dot Cattle Company stands as a testament to the dedication, resilience, and passion of Clint and Adana Stevenson. Since its inception in 1991, the ranch has become synonymous with providing high-quality Registered Black Angus Cattle to the livestock industry, with a special focus on meeting the needs of commercial cattle breeders. The Diamond Dot ethos revolves around producing cattle that not only weather the extremes of the Montana environment but excel in every aspect of performance.
A Commitment to Performance in Harsh Environments
Stevenson’s Diamond Dot Cattle are a testament to the rugged beauty of Montana. Far from being pampered, these cattle are expected to thrive in the challenging conditions of native pastureland. The focus on genetic selection encompasses traits such as growth, temperament, efficiency, carcass quality, and overall performance. The cattle at Diamond Dot not only survive but thrive, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.
Annual Bull Sale: Showcasing Excellence
The annual bull sale at the Diamond Dot Ranch each fall is a showcase of excellence. Bulls are presented that embody the Diamond Dot commitment to quality and performance. This event is not just a sale; it is a culmination of years of hard work, selective breeding, and a dedication to providing top-tier genetics to the industry. The private treaty sales throughout the year further extend the opportunity for cattle enthusiasts to acquire the best that Diamond Dot has to offer.
A Family Legacy
The Stevenson family plays a pivotal role in the success of Diamond Dot. In 1991, Clint and Adana, with the support of Wayne and Marian, purchased the ranch on the south bench of the Judith Basin. The journey began in a "rustic" farmhouse with a "cowboy shower," a wooden palette on the cement basement floor. Over the years, as the family and the ranch expanded, a new home was built, and it became the venue for the annual Fall Production Sale.
The Stevenson children, Wayne, Faith, Abigail, Rachael, and Carson, are deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of the ranch. Each member contributes their skills and passion to various aspects, from pursuing degrees in veterinary medicine and political science to owning and operating Diamond Dot Performance Horses. The family's commitment to the ranch extends beyond business; it is a way of life.
Roots in History: A Cattle Heritage
Though officially established in 1991, the roots of Diamond Dot trace back to Clint's first heifer in 1977. The influence of Stevenson family genetics dates to the early 1960s, marked by the first Stevenson production sales. Wayne’s Basin Angus cow herd, select groups of heifers and cows, and embryo groups have played a crucial role in establishing the Diamond Dot cow base.
Clint's early experiences, accompanying Wayne in his truck while feeding and checking the cattle, laid the foundation for the values that Diamond Dot upholds. The ranch has consistently aimed for efficient, high maternal, sound, good-uddered cows with the ability to withstand the harsh Montana weather. Key bloodlines like Traveler, Rainmaker, and Basin Max 602C have left an indelible mark on the Diamond Dot cow families.
The summer grazing patterns span diverse terrains, from rough river breaks to leases in the hard grass Belt Mountains, short grass native pastures, improved pastures, and lush creek bottoms. The emphasis on practicality, with no creep feeding for calves and no pampering for cows, is a testament to Diamond Dot's commitment to raising cattle that thrive in a natural environment.
Diversified Business Model
The early years saw Diamond Dot running yearling steers alongside a group of commercial cows. The ranch has experienced various facets of the cattle business, from selling feeder calves directly off the cow to retained ownership. Today, the cow herd is one of the largest, quality registered cow herds in North America. Home-raised heifers and purchased heifers from top bull customers contribute to one of the largest fall production sale offerings of bred heifers and cows in the industry.
In addition to running a quality cattle operation, Diamond Dot strives for innovation in farming practices. Double cropping on irrigation and raising small grains, along with producing most of its feed supply, showcase the ranch's commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency. Diamond Dot is one of the few farms in the area to raise corn silage and push its irrigated alfalfa ground to three cuttings within the short growing season.
Technology Meets Tradition: A Commitment to Excellence
Diamond Dot embraces the newest technology in developing its seedstock cattle, from EPDs to ultrasound, DNA analysis, and kill data. However, the ranch places paramount importance on maintaining the phenotype and functionality of the breed. The productivity and mothering ability of the cow, which made the Angus breed great, remain at the forefront of Diamond Dot's operations.
Looking to the Future
As Stevenson’s Diamond Dot Cattle Company continues to merge tradition with innovation, the ranch is poised for a promising future. The commitment to producing exceptional cattle, coupled with a dedication to customer service and fostering lasting relationships, ensures that Diamond Dot remains a beacon of excellence in the Montana plains. The Stevenson family's legacy is not just in cattle breeding; it's a story of resilience, passion, and a commitment to the highest standards in ranching.