Productive & Self-Sustaining Ranch in Saco, Montana
The Gary & Vivian Taylor Ranch encompasses more than 5,000 total acres, including 3,987 +/- deeded acres, and represents a highly functional livestock operation with the resources necessary to support a productive, self-sustaining ranching enterprise. Combining extensive native grazing acreage, irrigated pasture and hay ground, reliable year-round water resources, and a well-maintained home, the ranch offers the components owner-operators seek in a practical and efficient operation.
The deeded ranch acres include approximately 3,362 +/- native grazing acres, 355 +/- acres of improved pasture, previously in CRP, and 264 +/- flood irrigated acres. 400 BLM Acres in the North Third Creek Grazing Allotment, and a 640-acre State Section bring the total ranch acres to just over 5,000. The 5-acre homesite is situated to take advantage of the spectacular views overlooking Larb Creek and the surrounding ranch. Irrigation water is supplied through the Malta Irrigation District, supplemented by water rights from three Beaver Creek pump sites, providing flexibility in years of drought. Historically, the irrigated acres have been utilized as a hay base producing Garrison grass hay, grazed to increase carrying capacity, or managed as a combination of both depending on the ranch objectives.
Water resources are a significant asset to the ranch. Beaver Creek, Larb Creek, Second Creek, and Third Creek contribute to the property’s water system, while reservoirs, stock water pits, and a developed spring provide water throughout the operation. Owner reports indicate a carrying capacity of approximately 175 cow/calf pairs.
The headquarters includes a well-maintained residence, constructed in 1977, featuring three bedrooms and two-and-one-half bathrooms on the main level, along with a full unfinished basement. Updates include a three-car attached garage, metal roof, vinyl windows, and underground sprinkler system. In addition, a second homesite located on the irrigated portion of the ranch, approximately two miles south of Saco along Larb Creek Road, offers electrical service and development potential for an additional residence, employee housing, or future operational improvements.
A well-known Sage Grouse lek located on the property highlights the quality of the native habitat and serves as a testament to the stewardship of the land over many decades. The combination of creek corridors, irrigated ground, native prairie, and water resources creates ideal conditions for a variety of wildlife species.
Mule deer, whitetail deer, and upland game birds and antelope are frequently observed throughout the ranch, providing excellent wildlife viewing and hunting opportunities.
The ranch has been operated and cared for by generations of the Taylor and Able families, whose homestead history on the property dates back to the early settlement of the region as some of the first homesteaders to put down roots in Phillips County. Today, the ranch remains a productive agricultural unit with the land base, water resources, forage production, and improvements necessary to support a successful cattle operation.
