The Beginning, January 7, 2012

Research Plan

Review the internet to determine what is needed to succesfully raise Longhorn cattle.  Visit 3 Longhorn ranches to dicuss the advantates and disadvantages of raising Longhorn cattle.  Ask questions regarding how to look at the cows to determine which ones would be best for breeding.  Find out what steps need to be taken to implement a succesful business plan to raise and sell Longhorn cattle and beef.

The Existing Infrastructure

Stickler Tree Farm, LLC is located in Preston County West Virginia at an altitude of approximately 2500 feet on Caddell Mountain just south of Route 7 between Terra Alta and Kingwood West Virginia.  The farm is 221 acres in size and is mostly eastern hardwood forest.  Approximately 10 acres of non-fenced pasture with a spring and pond are available.  In addition there are 5 acres available for future hay production to produce haylage for winter rations.  At this time there are no barns or farm fence.  The only farm equipment is a small 20 horsepower tractor to small to move hay round bales.  A good tractor garage with electricity and good lighting is available.  There is enough room to store one 100 HP tractor, the existing 20 HP tractor, and a John Deere Gator.  There is an existing John Deere Gator for pasture inspection, carrying animal feed, and moving injured livestock.  The tractor garage is close to the pasture so electricity for the pasture fence is easily accessible.