American Aberdeen Angus Appreciation Day – Blue Oaks Ranch

Across the country, small-acreage ranchers, homesteaders, and regenerative farmers are rewriting the story of agriculture. They’re discovering how to build healthier herds, raise food with pride, and pass on traditions that matter. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to figure it out alone.

American Aberdeen Angus Appreciation Day is more than an event—it’s Blue Oaks Ranch’s heartfelt thank-you to the breed and the community that have brought so much joy, clarity, and connection into our lives. [our why]

This day is about empowering you with proven skills, insider knowledge, and the confidence to thrive—whether you’re just starting your herd, fine-tuning your ranch, or dreaming of a more self-sufficient life.

Even if you’ve never set foot on a ranch, this day invites you to reconnect with community, enjoy farm-fresh food, and experience the joy of learning how healthy, local agriculture shapes the life you dream of—security, connection, and memories that last a lifetime.

This event is open to all ages, so bring your children and let them experience a day filled with wonder, learning, and connection. Kids will love the chance to meet gentle cattle up close, explore the ranch, and see firsthand where real food comes from. They’ll gain a deeper appreciation for animals, nature, and community—lessons that last a lifetime. Beyond the fun, it’s an opportunity for children to learn responsibility, compassion, and respect for the land, while making joyful memories alongside family and new friends.

🎉 AFTER-PARTY: Keep the celebration alive with BBQ featuring Blue Oaks Ranch beef, local brews, live music, and laughter under the stars—filling your plate and your heart with the best of Nevada County. See more details below. 👇

• Belonging: Connect with ranchers, farmers, and families who share your values of stewardship, community, and food you can trust.
• Confidence: Learn from respected experts who have built thriving operations and want to help you do the same.
• Clarity: Gain practical, step-by-step strategies you can apply immediately to improve your herd, soil, and facilities.
• Peace of Mind: Walk away knowing you have the knowledge, tools, and support network to succeed.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime, FREE event—packed with the kind of insights, friendships, and opportunities you won’t find anywhere else.

1️⃣ SPOTTING QUALITY CATTLE: HOW TO BUILD A HEALTHIER HERD - Missy Ousley, American Aberdeen Expert

Discover how to see cattle with fresh eyes, strengthen your herd, and maximize returns.

• Spotting Quality: Evaluate cattle with confidence for smarter breeding.
• Conformation & Genetics: Score frame, soundness, and udders for healthier animals.
• Breeding the Ideal Cow: Improve your herd with genetics and environment.
• Maximizing Value: Make every animal boost your financial and food security goals.

2️⃣ FROM STRESS TO SUCCESS: PRACTICAL SKILLS FOR SAFER, SMARTER CATTLE HANDLING - Cowan Perkins, American Aberdeen Expert

Master the human-animal connection and turn everyday challenges into lasting success.

• Low-Stress Handling: Gather, sort, doctor, and haul cattle with confidence and safety.
• Facility Design: Build pens, corrals, and chutes that save time and reduce animal stress.
• Understanding Herd Behavior: Move cattle with harmony instead of force.
• Halter Training & DIY Gear: Teach trust, build your own halter, and gain pride in practical ranch skills.

🔷 Alissa Atherly - The Diversity of American Aberdeen Angus. Explore the remarkable diversity of the Aberdeen breed; their adaptability, benefits, and unique value to ranchers and communities.

🔷 Jon Shilling – Seeds of Success: Thriving Pastures. Learn how to restore worn-out fields with native grasses, legumes, and cover crops for resilient land and livestock.

🔷 Eric Whitley – Rotational Grazing Made Simple. Discover regenerative grazing practices that strengthen soil, improve herds, and sustain your ranch for generations.

🔷 Wayne Gonzales – From Pasture to Plate: Respectful Harvesting. Ensure top-quality beef and peace of mind through safe, professional, on-farm harvesting.

This event was designed for:

• Small-acreage ranchers raising cattle
• Homesteaders & lifestyle farmers committed to healthy, homegrown food.
• Aspiring ranchers seeking mentorship and confidence.
• Multi-generational families passing down ranch traditions.
• Regenerative agriculture enthusiasts improving soil and sustainability.
• Food-security seekers building independence from industrial farming.
• Breeding stock buyers looking for superior genetics.
• Community-minded learners who value connection and shared knowledge.

Following the workshop, the after-party is open to the broader community. Even if you can't attend the workshop, join us and keep the celebration alive with music, laughter, and community under the stars—so you leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper sense of connection. BBQ featuring mouthwatering Blue Oaks Ranch beef, local brews, live music, and lively conversation, filling your plate and your heart with the best of Nevada County.

⭐ Food and soft drinks are included for free. Beer and wine are available for purchase.

DON’T MISS OUT

Opportunities like this don’t come often—a FREE full day of expert teaching, hands-on insight, and community connection, all at no cost.

👉 Register now to secure your place at American Aberdeen Angus Appreciation Day—and step into a future of clarity, confidence, and connection for your ranching journey.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Blue Oaks Ranch, 18149 Mustang Valley Place, Grass Valley, United States