Farming/Ranching in the High Country: The Challenges and Rewards of Agriculture in Westcliffe, Colorado

Living in Westcliffe means waking up to sweeping mountain views, fresh alpine air, and a lifestyle deeply connected to the land. For Lance Ingram, Business Development Manager with Farm Credit of Southern Colorado, it also means being part of a tight-knit ranching community that faces both unique challenges and incredible rewards at high elevation.

Unique Challenges in Westcliffe

Ranching at elevation comes with a different set of obstacles than what you might find in other parts of the state. One of the biggest concerns for cattle producers here is a condition called brisket disease. Brisket disease, also known as high-mountain disease, is caused by lower oxygen levels at high elevations. It puts extra strain on a cow’s heart and lungs, leading to fatigue, breathing issues, and swelling in the brisket area. “Because of our elevation, our ranchers have to be especially cautious,” explains Ingram. “That means using PAP-tested bulls that can handle the elevation.”

The English breeds tend to be more susceptible, so careful selection is important. Access to supplies is another hurdle. “Unlike in Eastern Colorado, we don’t have easy access to feed mills or farm products,” says Ingram. “The nearest mill is in La Junta—about 100 miles away—and Lamar is over three hours. Many times, during haying season you might have to run to Pueblo or Alamosa in an afternoon to get the needed parts for an equipment breakdown.”

Water availability is also a year-to-year challenge. In this part of the state, irrigation often depends on snowpack and runoff. “No snow means no melt, and no melt means no irrigation,” explains Ingram. “If the reservoirs are low, it impacts how much hay we can grow. It’s something every producer here has to plan around.”

What Makes It Worth It

Despite the challenges, Westcliffe offers rewards that can’t be measured in dollars alone. “We’re surrounded by mountains, and there’s something peaceful about working in a place where you’re not constantly surrounded by noise or traffic,” says Ingram. The remoteness becomes a gift—offering solitude, strong community ties, and scenic beauty. The small-town atmosphere means neighbors help each other, and that’s something Farm Credit of Southern Colorado values deeply. “We’re proud to be part of that support system,” adds Ingram. “We’re not just lenders—we’re partners who live and work right alongside our customers.”

Supporting Local Producers

As a Business Development Manager who understands the unique needs of Westcliffe producers, Ingram is committed to helping local farmers and ranchers thrive—whether it’s financing PAP-tested cattle, navigating irrigation concerns, or just offering a listening ear. Farm Credit of Southern Colorado is here to offer personalized solutions for a resilient agricultural community.

This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or investment advice. Any information contained in this post is subject to change without notice and should not be relied upon without seeking the advice of a qualified professional. The views and opinions expressed in this post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of our Association. The author and Association are not responsible for any errors or omissions and are not liable for any losses or damages arising from the use of the information contained in this post.