MONTANA – As the first snowflakes began to dust the rugged peaks of the Lolo National Forest, a symphony of neighs and whinnies echoed through the valley of the Ninemile Ranger District, signaling the arrival of government stock for the winter boarding program.

Nestled between Missoula and Mineral counties in Montana lies the historic Remount Depot at Ninemile Ranger Station on the Lolo National Forest, a cherished sanctuary for some of the Forest Service’s hardworking stock animals. Established in 1930, the depot has served as a winter home for these animals for more than nine decades.

The depot’s origins can be traced back to the Forest Service’s acquisition of the 5,000-acre Allen Ranch. Recognizing the need for a dedicated facility to care for and train pack animals, the Forest Service transformed the ranch into a remount depot, a place where stock could recuperate and undergo training before returning to their essential duties in the backcountry. The depot provides these remarkable animals with some well-deserved pampering after long, strenuous field seasons spent navigating rugged terrain, carrying heavy loads and assisting with tasks ranging from fire suppression to trail maintenance.

From November to late April, stock from across the Northern Region are welcomed back to the Ninemile Remount Station where they are guaranteed to have good feed, daily care, vaccines, de-wormer and safe facilities for the cold winter months. In its heyday, the Remount Station housed more than 1500 animals. Today, the site brings in more than 200 head of horses and mules (224 to be exact for this winter) from 14 different ranger districts on neighboring forests including the Helena-Lewis and Clark, Flathead, Custer Gallatin, Beaverhead Deerlodge, Bitterroot, Lolo and Teton.

The winter boarding program at Ninemile offers a cozy haven for government stock during the off-season, ensuring their well-being and preparing them for their return to active duty in the spring. Skilled stock handlers and, when needed, veterinarians oversee their care, tending to their physical needs and ensuring their overall well-being. During the winter Ninemile staff feed about 5,500 pounds of round bales a day. They also provide water and check on the condition of the animals twice a day.

The Ninemile Remount Depot stands as a testament to the Forest Service's deep respect for its stock animals. These hardworking creatures play an indispensable role in maintaining and protecting our nation's forests. The depot's dedication to their care reflects the agency's commitment to responsible stewardship.

As the Forest Service continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of land management, the Ninemile Remount Depot remains a vital asset. By providing a place of rest and rehabilitation, the depot ensures that these invaluable animals can continue to contribute to the agency's mission of preserving and protecting our precious natural resources.