Ranching Feature: Miller Creek Ditch, one of Meeker’s great industries

RBC I Range cattle in White River country were plagued with summer drought,a condition providing little grass for late summer and an unreliable supply for winter. Before irrigation, there was little stored hay for emergencies or winter feed. Outfits made long cattle drives to find better grass. In 1889, the UCC/Keystone outfit’s herd became thin and weak. Cattle, some with calves, were bawling and in no condition to travel, yet were pushed on the…