Montana rancher Darrell Stevenson teams up with two Russian cattlemen to export an entire cow outfit to the Russian steppes. In the first of a three-part series, the author rides along with the Stevenson cowboys to the land of borscht, fallow land and the $75 steak dinner.

Parts 1 and 2 of the three-part feature, “Comrade Cowboy,” appeared in the July and August issues of Western Horseman. The story chronicles how a Montana rancher is working to establish a large-scale, Western cattle operation in Russia. Darrell Stevenson sent more than 1,400 cows to the former communist nation last January. Relying on a crew of American cowboys and a string of seasoned ranch geldings, Stevenson contends with a multitude of challenges in starting his Russian ranch.

Wanted: Day worker. Long hours, difficult tasks, unpredictable schedules. Pay not always commensurate with experience. Benefits include freedom, family time, opportunity to be horseback. “ I work all over, for whoever needs me. It’s the worst way in the world to make a living, but it’s the best way of life.” —DUB METCALF

Rob Krentz, who was murdered on his ranch in March of 2010, left a lasting impression.

In the May 2010 issue, Western Horseman ranked the Four Sixes as the top ranch horse program. Horse program manager Glen Blodgett, DVM, explains his breeding approach.