Watson Ranch
This ranch near Pompeys Pillar in south central Montana truly is a rare offering. Situated on the banks of the Yellowstone River approximately 35 miles northeast of Billings, this property offers a very distinct variety of topography and habitat. Nearly a century in same family, it is being offered for the first time. From the cottonwood groves along the almost 1.5 miles of Yellowstone River frontage, through the irrigated fields and riparian
Land
The lower ranch is approximately 500+ acres which is comprised of irrigated fields and pastures. 1000 plus tons of hay are produced every year, depending on rainfall. Along with several pastures that are used for horses year round, the cattle are also traditionally moved in during winter in preparation for calving. Additionally; there is an unnamed tributary of the Yellowstone that originates here, and provides excellent stock water. Riv...
The lower ranch is approximately 500+ acres which is comprised of irrigated fields and pastures. 1000 plus tons of hay are produced every year, depending on rainfall. Along with several pastures that are used for horses year round, the cattle are also traditionally moved in during winter in preparation for calving. Additionally; there is an unnamed tributary of the Yellowstone that originates here, and provides excellent stock water. River access is year round, and the property offers private areas for boat launch. The shaded and cottonwood lined riverbank is an ideal spot for picnics.
The upper ranch begins where the county road ends, at an admirably robust metal fence. A coded electric gate ensures only private traffic enters. With the exception of a large culvert for equipment and cattle under I-94, this is the only access to the upper ranch. There are 2500+ deeded acres, that combine to comprise the upper ranch. This northern sloping bench consists of mainly dry land pastures, with timber and ravines throughout. Historically the upper ranch has been used for grazing with some dry land hay production. This part of the ranch is perimeter and cross fenced with 1 1/2 miles of high game fence on one border fence line.
Sand Creek flows northerly through the upper ranch, with excellent stock and irrigation rights. The ingress and egress is quite pleasing as you drive through the cottonwood lined creek bottom, and then ascend onto the rolling timber lined pastures. In addition to the aforementioned water; there are also several springs, 11 wells, and a reservoir that provide ample water for the stock and irrigation. Water rights in Montana are subject to the adjudication process. Transfer of the water rights does not warrant that right until any judication process has been finalized. Flood irrigation is utilized for the numerous fields on the lower portion of the ranch.
Improvements
Acreage:
127 Acres irrigated
223 Acres River Bottom Pasture
206 Acres Dry Land Hay
830 Improved Pasture
1572 Acres Pasture
Total Acreage: 3118
Recreation
Hunting Opportunities:
Down along the banks of the Yellowstone you will find hundreds of acres of cottonwood forests, willow thickets, Russian olives, and tall native grasses teaming to create an ideal habitat for trophy Whitetail Deer. In addition, the adjacent irrigated fields create a frequent pit stop for migrating waterfowl along Montana’s central flyway. Robust populations of wild pheasant and turkey are also found here. A great variety of hawks, golden and bald eagles are regular residents of the area, along with Sandhill Cranes, Great Blue Herons, and other birds that call this area home for part of the year.
Located within a region of Montana rumored to harbor some of the states best genetic elk herds; seeing bulls in the high 300? and low 400? class in not uncommon. Having never been outfitted, the ranch offers an unspoiled opportunity at legitimate trophy elk, mule deer, and pronghorn. The sellers of this property have taken great pride in providing wild and natural habitat, as well as sanctuary for large game animals culling mostly cow elk, and small bucks during hunting seasons. The higher portions of the ranch have become a frequent haven for mature bull elk, and mule deer. Topographically the ranch is unique from many ranches in the region. Sand Creek runs directly through parts of this holding, coupled with several surface wells and springs. This ranch has the water, grass, cover, and travel corridors to support the large populations of game mentioned. This ranch also qualifies for Land Owner Preference tags per Montana Hunting Regulations.
The Sellers intend to execute an IRC 1031 Tax Deferred Exchange.
Agents Comments:
The Watson Ranch is truly one of a kind ranch for Eastern Montana. The diverse topography, water enriched , abundant wildlife, all make this ranch a highly sought after property. If you are a rancher, investor, sportsman, or a Non-profit organization looking to make this property into a retreat, then you must consider the Watson Ranch.
Map
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