Jay Doan: A Legacy of Innovation, Stewardship, & Succession at Black Leg Ranch
Jay Doan, a fifth-generation rancher and agri-preneur, carries forward a rich legacy at the historic Black Leg Ranch in McKenzie, North Dakota. Established in 1882, the ranch has transcended traditional cattle ranching to become a dynamic, value-added agricultural enterprise. Today, it encompasses a hunting outfit, an international agri-tourism operation, a wedding and events venue, a craft brewery, and the latest venture in commercial meats and upcycled grains.
Welcoming guests from all 50 states and over 65 countries, Jay and his family are deeply passionate about promoting agriculture and the importance of regenerative practices.
Spanning 20,000 acres in central North Dakota, the ranch partners with farmers on 3,000 acres of cropland to facilitate guided crop rotations, no-till practices, and cover crops, while providing residue for cattle forage. On approximately 17,000 acres of grazing land, meticulous attention to soil health enhances forage production and biodiversity, reduces erosion, and lowers costs. The ranch's intensive grazing program, with over 65 miles of high-tensile fence creating 90 pastures, allows cattle to graze in a manner reminiscent of historic bison herds.
Over the past decade, the Doan family has received the inaugural Aldo Leopold Conservation Award and was named National winners of the Environmental Stewardship Award Program. Jay currently serves on the North Dakota Rural Development Council, appointed by Governor Doug Burgum, to develop rural communities through leadership collaboration across the state. He has also been a member of the Central Grasslands REC Advisory Board (CGREC) and is a proud graduate of Rural Leadership North Dakota, which cultivates effective leaders to strengthen rural communities.
Before returning to North Dakota, Jay worked as a financial advisor and in marketing/brand development for Hensley & Company and Anheuser-Busch, Inc. His time in Arizona and Texas broadened his horizons and deepened his appreciation for his heritage. Jay's vision for the ranch extends beyond his immediate work. He aims to establish a legacy of innovative stewardship and seamless succession, ensuring that Black Leg Ranch remains a model of regenerative agriculture and community engagement for generations to come.
Jay resides in Bismarck with his wife Kari and their two children, Jamisyn (10) and Jayston (8).