Ep 13. Shipping Cattle

In season 9 episode 13 of The Pioneer Woman, titled "Shipping Cattle," viewers follow host Ree Drummond as she prepares for a major project on her Oklahoma ranch. With over 2,000 head of cattle waiting to be shipped to their winter grass, Drummond and her family must work quickly and efficiently to make sure the animals arrive safely and healthy.

As the day of the shipment approaches, Drummond and her husband, Ladd, gather their ranch hands to plan out the logistics of the operation. With so many cattle to transport, the ranch needs to be coordinated in order to get the job done without any mishaps. This means dividing the herd into manageable groups, loading them onto sturdy semi-trucks, and ensuring that they have enough food and water for the long journey.

To supplement the task of organizing the cattle, Drummond also whips up some hearty meals to keep the crew energized throughout the day. Her recipes include a savory breakfast casserole and a spicy chili to warm up the workers as they brace for the cold winter weather.

Viewers also get an inside look at how the cattle are cared for on the Drummond Ranch. From checking their health to administering necessary vaccinations, Drummond and her family ensure that each animal is fit to make the journey.

But the challenges of shipping cattle don't stop once they leave the ranch. Along with the help of experienced truck drivers, the Drummonds must also navigate the long and often treacherous journey to the animals' winter feeding grounds. This includes managing the traffic on the highways, dealing with possible mechanical breakdowns, and facing other unexpected obstacles along the way.

The episode also touches on the significance and history of cattle drives, which stretch back to the mid-1800s, when cowboys drove cattle from ranches in Texas to railheads in Kansas. The drive was seen as a way to create value from the open-prairies of the West and was a major part of American folklore.

Overall, "Shipping Cattle" provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at a challenging and quintessentially American industry. Drummond's dedication to her ranch and her animals is admirable, and her willingness to share her process and experiences with viewers only adds to the charm of this fun and informative episode.