Newmont Mining Corporation

By Melanie Lawson
Battle mountain, Nevada 

Although Newmont is known primarily for our gold, silver and copper production around the world, many people - including more than a few Newmont employees - might be surprised to learn that the company is also involved in the ranching business.

Newmont's "T Lazy S" Ranch - better known as the "TS" Ranch - sprawls for many miles along the north side of I-80 between Carlin and Battle Mountain in Nevada. Founded by Irish immigrant William Dunphy in the mid-1880s, the ranch started out with just one cattle herd on a few acres. By his death in 1914, the parcel had grown to more than 20,000 acres.

The property traded hands several times over the subsequent years until 1986, when Newmont purchased it for mineral rights, water rights and transportation access (the property also contains approximately 50,000 acres of railroad). Elko Land & Livestock Company, a Newmont subsidiary, manages the ranch. Today, the property spans approximately 400,000 acres, making it one of the largest private land holdings and ranching operations in the state.  It is a valuable asset to our Nevada operations.

History of good deeds
Despite the ranch's original moniker, "T Lazy S," Agriculture and Ranching Manager Dan Gralian is quick to point out that the ranch is anything but lazy. Its role has grown to include promoting responsible environmental practices, appropriate land use and proper care of animals. The TS sponsors numerous educational opportunities to communicate its valued practices and traditions to both children and adults.

TS employees include entire families as well as single men from around the West. The ranch is so popular that it has a waiting list of job-seeking cowboys who want to work there. And why not? The TS is touted as one of few ranches where cowboys get benefits. Learn more about the TS Ranch at www.tsranch.com.

December 1, 2009