Karl and Keith Bartholomay of Sheldon, N.D., (middle) accepting their award
ORLANDO, FL (NDSA) – Bartholomay Kattle Kompany of Sheldon, N.D., was honored as the regional winner of the 2023 Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP). The Ransom County, N.D., cattle producers were recognized by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) earlier this month at the Cattle Industry Convention in Orlando, Fla. They were nominated for the award by the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association (NDSA).
Bartholomay Kattle Kompany, a diversified crop and cow-calf operation that prioritizes environmental stewardship, is located in the heart of the Sheyenne Delta. The Bartholomay family has been farming and ranching in the area for nearly 127 years. Thirty-nine-year NDSA members Keith and Sandi Bartholomay own and operate the ranch along with their son Karl and his wife Rebecca, who are 12-year NDSA members. “We take care of the land so that it can take care of us,” said Keith Bartholomay.
“Across the great state of North Dakota and this nation, cattlemen and cattlewomen alike are committed to the care of the land, air and water resources, and they take their responsibilities seriously,” said NDSA President Jason Leiseth, a rancher from Arnegard, N.D. “On behalf of the Stockmen’s Association, I want to congratulate Bartholomay Kattle Kompany, a model of stewardship, on this special achievement.”
Bartholomays’ cow-calf operation encompasses more than 4,000 acres, including areas of cropland, hayland, native range and pasture. The Bartholomay family constructed a hoop barn to keep rainwater and runoff away from their feedlot and manure, and they use manure to fertilize crops and improve soil health. Understanding the importance of soil conservation, the family implemented no-till farming practices to grow corn, soybeans, wheat, oats and sunflowers in their crop rotation system. In addition, the Bartholomays’ willingness to allow research projects on their land is a testament to their dedication to progressive, environmentally friendly farming and ranching management practices. They also host numerous research and education tours and are eager to share their experiences with visitors.
“The Bartholomays have installed several conservation practices throughout the years, including rotational grazing, winter feeding alternatives, manure management, solar water systems and tree plantings,” said Bob Flath, Ransom County Soil Conservation district manager. “Not only [do they] pursue improvements to [their] own operation, but [they] also offer [their] expertise to others.”