For centuries, ranch and farm owners have used horses to work cattle, supervise field crews, get around the property to check on crops and livestock, and much more. Using
ATVs on ranches is becoming more common, and it’s a trend that many ranchers and their employees are embracing, Progressive Cattle notes. The following reasons may help to explain why:
ATVs are terrific for long-distance work
One of the greatest advantages of an ATV is its ability to run for hours and dozens of miles without getting tired. For farmers and ranchers who have to tend acres of fields and inspect dozens of miles of fencing and property, four-wheelers can help them get these jobs done in a shorter amount of time, without requisite stops to rest and water their horses. ATVs are also an ideal option when a large group of cattle needs to be moved over many miles; the ATV rider can go ahead of the herd and block driveways as needed or close or open gates, keeping in touch with other ATV riders and/or those on horseback by cell phone or walkie talkie.
ATVs are relatively easy to maintain
As farm and ranch vehicles go, ATVs are tough, durable, economical and low-maintenance. While horse shoes last for around 6 to 8 weeks before they need to be replaced, a high quality set of tires from the
MotoSport online store can last for months or even years, depending on what types of terrain they cover. ATVs also do not require saddles, blankets or other equine-related equipment and accessories.
ATVs are versatile
Another
advantage that ATVs have over horses is their versatility, notes Tri-State Livestock News. Ranchers and farm owners have found they can use a four-wheeled vehicle to complete a wide variety of tasks, some of which a horse is not well-equipped to handle. For example, while a horse might not be able to get up to the top of rugged hills covered with sagebrush, an ATV can typically do this with ease. ATVs can also be used to fertilize crops, supervise the crews in the field, mark trees, mow grass, and transport equipment and other materials from one place to another on the farm or ranch.
ATVs can offer freedom to older farm and ranch owners
For older ranchers and farmers who might be dealing with some mobility issues, ATVs provide a terrific way to get around their property so they can continue to work. While people with arthritis or other health issues sometimes can no longer ride a horse, they can usually still drive an ATV. As Penn State Extension notes, ATVs offer a sense of freedom and independence, and allow people to effectively manage their ranch or farm, even as they get up in age.
A few words about safety
Ranchers who intend to use an ATV to work with their cattle should take some time to get their herd acclimated to the four-wheeled vehicle. ATVs look and sound a lot different than horses, and they can spook cattle that are not used to them. At first, the ATV should be used to help feed and water the cows, so they can think of the four-wheeler as a positive thing. Whenever possible, allow the cows to approach the ATV and sniff at it, so they can get used to it and get over any anxieties they may have about the machine.
