Arizona, with its diverse landscapes and climates, has always been a hub for cattle ranching and agriculture in general. With the overwhelming response to our recent Instagram post, where many of you tagged, mentioned, and sent direct messages about your favorite local cattle ranches, we've decided to embark on a journey to feature these community gems. We're starting with the Barney York Ranch, followed by the L Bell Ranch, and many more to come. Having kids at the same school together, we have gotten to know Kelsey and her wonderful family. Every time I have had the pleasure of visiting the expansive Barney York Ranch, I am reminded of the term "God’s Country". The Barney York Ranch truly is God’s country. Kelsey and her family maintain a deep connection to God and the land they steward. With four generations living on the property, from eighty years old to one year old, the Barney York Ranch reminds me of an old Native American proverb: "We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children". At the Barney York Ranch, this sentiment is lived out daily, emphasizing the importance of cherishing and taking care of the earth and the animals as a divine responsibility and a testament to their faith.

The Legacy of the Kenson Family

The Kenson family, with their deep-rooted legacy as ranchers, took the reins of the Barney York Ranch in 2004. This ranch, which was once an integral part of the Las Vegas Ranch, has been transformed under the Kenson family's stewardship, bearing witness to their unwavering commitment and passion for ranching for two decades. Before setting their sights on Barney York, the Kenson family had already established a strong presence in the cattle business, nurturing and raising cattle in the picturesque terrain of Kirkland, Arizona. Today, the ranch isn't just a business; it's a testament to the family's unity and shared love for the land. Spanning multiple generations, each family member, from the youngest at just 1 year old to the eldest at 82, brings their individual flair and expertise to the ranch's operations.

Kelsey Baker: The Heartbeat of Barney York Ranch

Kelsey Baker is the vibrant spirit that manages the front-facing aspects of the Barney York Ranch. With responsibilities spanning sales, marketing orders, and liaising with vendors, Kelsey seamlessly blends her professional role with her personal life. As a wife and mother to Monroe, Rivers, and Truett, she cherishes the ranching atmosphere, believing it to be the ideal environment to raise her children. A former elementary teacher, Kelsey's journey with the ranch began in earnest when she and her husband, Heath, moved to her hometown, Prescott, in 2017. The subsequent years saw the couple welcome their children and undertake the ambitious project of relocating and remodeling a historical 1918 Sears craftsman home from Long Meadow Ranch. Kelsey's ethos revolves around grace, kindness, service, and love, values she imbibes in her daily life. Despite the whirlwind of activities, Kelsey's life at the ranch is a testament to the joy and fulfillment that come from living one's passion.

Pillars of the Barney York Ranch

The Kenson family, deeply rooted in Prescott, Arizona, is the backbone of the Barney York Ranch. Bill and Carole Kenson, both Prescott High School graduates, have dedicated their lives to the ranch. Grandpa Bill is often seen riding around, checking on cattle and branding new calves, with Grandma Carole always by his side, ready with a tasty treat after a hard day's work. Tiny Kenson, a general contractor by profession, spends every free moment he has on the ranch, ensuring that the family has countless memorable moments to cherish. His wife, Cathy, is the culinary genius of the family, whipping up delicious meals and maintaining the ranch's pristine beauty with her masterful mowing skills. Tanner Kenson, the talented craftsman and modern-day cowboy, resides on the ranch, embodying the fusion of tradition and contemporary skills essential for today's ranching world. As the go-to person for all things repair and creation, Tanner adeptly handles a range of responsibilities. In an era where cowboys must be as comfortable with digital tools as they are with a lasso, Tanner stands as a testament to the adaptability and versatility required in the modern ranching landscape. Whitney Kenson Kean, the marketing maestro and party planner par excellence, lives in Pasadena, California, working for Discovery Land Company. Married to architect Nathaniel Kean and mother to Barrett and Georgia, Whitney ensures that the family remains fit and fabulous, despite the miles that separate them. Together, the Kenson clan embodies the values, traditions, and hard work that make the Barney York Ranch the success it is today.

Happy Cattle, Happy Life

At the heart of Barney York Ranch's operations is a simple yet profound philosophy: "Happy Cattle, Happy Life." This mantra underscores the ranch's unwavering commitment to the well-being of its cattle. The ranch believes that when animals are treated with respect and care, they not only thrive physically but also lead contented lives. By rotating the cattle throughout the year, the ranch ensures that the animals always have access to fresh pastures, which not only provide them with a nutritious diet but also help protect the land from overgrazing. These regular rotations are supplemented by careful health checks, which ensure that any potential problems are handled as soon as possible. The ranch's practices are a testament to their belief in coexisting harmoniously with nature. Their tagline, inspired by the renowned animal behaviorist Temple Grandin, encapsulates this sentiment perfectly: "Nature is cruel, but we don't have to be." It's a reminder that while the natural world can be harsh, humans have the choice to act with kindness and compassion, especially towards those in their care.

From Ranch to Plate

The Barney York Ranch provides a unique and immersive experience for those who value the authenticity and quality of ranch-raised beef. Their comprehensive service begins with the selection process, allowing customers to personally choose a calf from the ranch's diverse herd. This calf is then nurtured on the ranch, benefiting from a carefully curated diet that ensures its health and vitality. As the calf matures, the ranch's experienced team guides customers through the production process, from selecting the best cuts to understanding the various stages of meat preparation. This hands-on approach guarantees that families not only receive premium beef but also have a deeper appreciation for the journey their food has taken. Additionally, for those who wish to delve deeper into the world of ranching, Barney York offers the chance to purchase calves or yearlings. This opportunity is ideal for individuals who aspire to raise their own beef, ensuring they start with the best possible foundation. Through these offerings, the ranch emphasizes the importance of transparency, quality, and a genuine connection between the land, the animal, and the plate.

Awards and Recognition

The Barney York Ranch isn't just another name in the cattle industry; it's a symbol of excellence and dedication. Over the years, their cattle have not only thrived on the ranch but have also shone brightly in the competitive show arena. Their impressive list of accolades speaks volumes about their commitment to quality and breeding excellence. Among their many achievements, the title of Reserve Grand Champion Breeding Heifer stands out, showcasing their expertise in breeding top-tier heifers. Additionally, their Blue-Ribbon Cow/Calf Project and Blue-Ribbon Market Steer awards further attest to their prowess in raising and nurturing cattle that meet and exceed industry standards.

But it's not just about awards at Barney York. The ranch is home to a diverse range of cattle breeds, each carefully selected and nurtured to maintain the ranch's high standards. While they house breeds like Hereford and Long Horn, a special emphasis is placed on Black Angus. This is evident in their choice of bulls, with all four of their registered bulls being of the Black Angus variety. These bulls play a pivotal role in ensuring the genetic superiority and quality of the cattle raised on the ranch. Through its awards, diverse cattle breeds, and commitment to excellence, Barney York Ranch has solidified its reputation as a leader in the Arizona cattle ranching industry.

Premium Beef at Barney York

Barney York Ranch has carved a niche for itself in the world of beef production, gaining recognition for its top-tier grass-fed and grass/grain-fed beef, with a special emphasis on the Black Angus breed. Their cattle thrive on a diverse diet of grasses, including side oats, blue gamma, and tall fescue. By rotating the cattle throughout the year, the ranch allows areas to reseed and rejuvenate for the subsequent season. This meticulous approach to pasture management not only ensures the health of the land but also contributes to the beef's natural flavor and nutritional value. Their commitment to natural processes is further evident in their refusal to use growth hormones or steroids. While they currently specialize in offering 1/2 or whole beef orders, the meticulous processing at Perkinsville Meat Processing ensures that the meat's integrity is maintained throughout. Adding a touch of personalization, customers are given the freedom to tailor their orders to their specific preferences. To further simplify the process for their clientele, the ranch takes the lead in all communications related to the order. And for those residing in the Prescott area, the ranch goes the extra mile, delivering the freshly processed meat right to their doorsteps, ensuring convenience without compromising on quality.

Celebrating the Legacy of Barney York Ranch

Nestled in the scenic landscapes outside of Prescott, Arizona, the Barney York Ranch stands as a beacon of tradition, dedication, and excellence in the realm of cattle ranching. More than just a ranch, it represents a legacy—a testament to the values and principles that have been passed down through generations. Their commitment to ethical ranching practices ensures that every animal is treated with respect and care, reflecting a deep-rooted belief in coexisting harmoniously with nature. The ranch's storied history, intertwined with its continuous pursuit of quality, positions it as not just a leader but also as a standard-bearer for others in the industry.

As we wrap up our spotlight on Barney York Ranch, it's clear that their story is but one chapter in Arizona's rich tapestry of cattle ranching. The state is home to numerous local ranches, each with its own unique narrative and contributions. We're excited to continue this exploration, bringing to the fore more such stories that showcase the passion, dedication, and resilience of Arizona's ranching community. Join us on this journey as we celebrate the spirit and legacy of local ranches that are the pride of Arizona.