Four S Land & Cattle

Four S Land and Cattle is a 5,970-acre contiguous ranch that features a mix of nearly 700 acres of irrigated pastures & alfalfa fields, along with timbered hills filled with cedar, pinon, and juniper that work their way north into the Blue Mountains. The property benefits from dependable irrigation water from Unity Reservoir and historically has been able to produce up to 1,500+/- tons of hay when in full production. The mixed landscape of timbered hills and alfalfa meadows also provides an ideal habitat for elk, deer, and other game that can be found throughout the ranch. Improvements include an owner’s house, a newer manufactured guest house, a ranch hand house, two shops, a calving barn, & working corrals with a hydraulic chute.

Conservatively estimated to run 250-300 pairs and put up enough hay for winter feeding with some left over to sell. Historical hay production has been between 1,300-1,500 total tons. This number could probably be higher with more intensive management. Alfalfa is grown on approximately 80 acres under a center pivot and approximately 80 acres under two-wheel lines. Irrigation water from Unity Reservoir is about as dependable as there is in eastern Oregon. The reservoir fills almost every year and a full reservoir results in an irrigation season that lasts through September.

Listed in cooperation with Land Leader Northwest LLC & exclusively marketed by Mirr Ranch Group LLC.

Four S Land and Cattle offers 5,970 contiguous acres featuring a mix of terrain including irrigated pastures and alfalfa fields and timbered hills that lead into the Blue Mountains. The diverse terrain and ample water on the ranch provide an ideal habitat not only for a year-round cattle operation but also for quality big game animals such as elk and deer that are found throughout the ranch.

Improvements

Improvements include an owner’s house, a newer manufactured guest home, a manufactured home intended for a ranch hand, 2 shops, a calving barn, and working corrals with hydraulic chute.

Locale

The ranch is situated at the West end of the Hereford Valley in southern Baker County. Hike majestic mountains, fish in the Hereford River, explore scenic trails on horseback and indulge in local wineries and artisanal shops. This exceptional location offers a myriad of activities to suit every interest.

Distance To:

• Unity, OR: 7 miles
• Baker City, OR: 40 miles
• John Day, OR: 52 miles
• Pendleton, OR: 136 miles
• Boise, ID: 147 miles – nearest commercial airport
• Bend, OR: 204 miles

History

The area around Hereford was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Paiute and Nez Perce. In the mid-1800s, as pioneers ventured westward during the Oregon Trail era, Hereford became a stopping point for travelers and settlers. The abundant natural resources, including fertile land and water sources, attracted people to the area.

Cattle ranching and farming have remained important economic activities in the area to this day. Over the years, Hereford has maintained its rural character and has continued to be a close-knit community. Today, it is home to a small number of residents and primarily consists of ranches and other rural properties. The town’s connection to the land, coupled with its community spirit, contributes to the unique charm and character of Hereford, Oregon.

Climate

Baker County experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by distinct seasons and relatively low precipitation. The region typically enjoys warm and dry summers, with temperatures reaching into the 90s Fahrenheit during the peak of the season. Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, and occasional snowfall is common. Spring and fall are transitional seasons with mild temperatures, though frost can occur in the early and late parts of these seasons. Overall, Baker County has a climate that lends itself well to outdoor activities and the enjoyment of the natural beauty of the area.

Hunting

The ranch is located in the Sumpter Hunting Unit and qualifies for 5 Landowner Preference Tag applications for both deer and elk. Excellent fishing opportunities for trout, crappie, bass, and more in Unity Reservoir which is about a mile from the ranch.

Fishing

Great boating and fishing at Unity Reservoir is about one mile from the ranch. The Powder River and nearby lakes and reservoirs are popular fishing spots for rainbow trout, crappie, smallmouth, and other fish species.

Recreation

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, located 45 min from Baker City, provides skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing trails for all skill levels. Recreational enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby proximity to Monument Rock Wilderness, Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, and North Fork John Day Wilderness Area.

Ranch Operations

Ranch operations are conservatively estimated to run 250-300 pairs and put up enough hay for winter feeding. Historical hay production has been between 1,300-1,500 total tons. This number could be higher with more intensive management. Alfalfa is grown on approximately 80 acres under center pivot and approximately 80 acres under two-wheel lines.

Water Rights

The property offers 694.5 acres of water rights. Irrigation water is sourced from both the Burnt River and the North Fork of the Burnt River. The Burnt River flows through the ranch for nearly 1 mile after it leaves Unity Reservoir. In addition to the river Cottonwood Creek and Beaverdam Creek flow through the ranch from north to south before they enter the Burnt River. Livestock water in the range pasture is provided by two spring-fed stock ponds, a solar well that feeds 8 water troughs, and numerous undeveloped springs and seeps. Buyers should verify water rights information with BRID. District Manager Shawn Klaus – (541)-446-3313.

Mineral Rights

Any and all mineral rights controlled by the owners would convey with the sale.

Taxes

$16,266.58 (includes Burnt River Irrigation District O & M: $4,521.88, State Fire Patrol: $2,527.43)