HAY! It’s Art
Photo and text by Jane Bachrach
Other than those counting on another cutting, haying season is already nearing the end for some ranchers on Missouri Heights.
For those unfamiliar with the changing landscape on Missouri Heights, during the last few weeks or so the pastures located on the once rural plateau became canvases upon which ranchers created artful designs . Although temporary, the designs remind us of the past and the beauty which blanketed this entire area.
These collections of art are quite valuable to ranchers, as they become feed for their livestock throughout the winter months.
Today, despite the changing environment, haying season on Missouri Heights reassures us that pockets of the past do still exist on this once pristine canvas overlooking Carbondale.
Due to the invasion of development and more poured concrete — which leads to increased traffic, noise and environmental harm — this once untouched land and ranching way of life is, unfortunately, always at risk. It reminds us that we must all appreciate and do what we can to protect our precious canvas that allows us to love where we live.
