Who We Are?
About us
Welcome to Emerald Mountain Ranch, stewards of the fifth-generation legacy of Stanko Ranch established 1907. Nestled in the stunning landscapes of the Yampa River Valley and Emerald Mountain, we share the challenges, commitment, and satisfaction of ranching in the Colorado mountains. Meet our beloved animals and learn about our Amazing Loyal Hardworking Livestock Guardian Dogs, including Turkish Boz Shepherds. Join us as we celebrate our way of life and the enduring spirit of ranching.
The Stanko Ranch sits nestled on the western slope of Emerald Mountain, also known as Quarry Mountain, in the picturesque surroundings of Steamboat Springs. Originating from a humble 160-acre claim staked by Patrick’s Great Grandfather in 1907, the ranch has flourished over the years, expanding to over 600 acres. Throughout its history, it has been a hub of agricultural activity, cultivating crops such as wheat and potatoes, and raising livestock including cattle, sheep, and hogs.
Today, the Stanko Ranch remains a labor of love for the family of Jim and Jo (Patrick’s Parents), Patrick, and Jan. Their commitment to preserving the legacy of the ranch extends to the careful selection of livestock guardian dogs. In response to the proximity of wolves in neighboring Wyoming, Jan embarked on a quest to find capable guardians for their livestock. After thorough research, the family settled on Turkish Boz Shepherds, renowned for their effectiveness in protecting livestock.
At the heart of their operation is a dedication to producing top-notch working Livestock Guardian Dogs (LGDs), meticulously trained and exposed to various aspects of ranch life, from protecting cattle and sheep to safeguarding poultry. The Stanko Ranch stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of family farming and the timeless bond between humans and animals.
Emerald Mtn. Ranch
Emerald Mtn Ranch | 5th Generation Stanko Ranch Est. 1907 • 700-acre Yampa Valley working ranch. Purpose-bred Turkish Boz Shepherds, raised and proven under real mountain conditions and predator pressure.
Advocates for LGDs, land & livestock
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Viper might be our smallest Boz, but don't let the size fool you.
Viper absolutely rules the roost. He’s drop-dead gorgeous, but he’s definitely not just another pretty boy; he is sharp as a tack and knows exactly when to flip the switch.🐾
Even when a protective ewe stomps her foot to tell him to stay back, he respects her space. He’s been a total gentleman with our recent set of quintuplets. 🐑🐑🐑🐑🐑
Momma is dealing with some mastitis, so we’re on supplemental duty. One of the boys, little Olaf, had some fluid in his lungs at birth, so he’s been making frequent trips to the house for feedings and some extra Taylor-cuddles. 🏠❤️
#EmeraldMtnRanch #Viper #LGD #Quints #RanchLife #TigerBoz #SteamboatSprings #Olaf
Today we celebrate PTLS Awareness Day 💚 with our beautiful daughter, who brings so much joy to our family. While she navigates life with her own unique set of challenges, it's her joy and resilience that truly define her. We are so proud.
#EmeraldMtnRanch #ptlsawareness #inclusionmatters
Well, it happened again. 🚨
Someone came through way too fast last night, left the road, and trashed a brand-new section of our fence. Dropping everything this morning to get it patched back up before the cattle find the gap.
If you’re the one missing a side mirror this morning, we’ve got it here at the ranch. Feel free to stop by and pick it up, bring some fencing pliers and a good attitude with you.
Please slow down out there. Our fence (and our sanity) would appreciate it. 🚧
#RanchLife #Fence #Cows #dukesofhazzard