I think a lot of these ignorant comments about ranching are coming from people who think meat originates in the grocery store.
A FACT, no doubt.
But would draw your attention to the regional dispute as well- How the hell does California and New Jersey tell Montana what to do?
Much to my chagrin, I must confess a similar fault in myself, back in the day:
When the Fed started protecting alligators I was all for it... Little did I know, though, and my attitude was changed in one night when when working as a guide/packer for a hunting party.
Two of the members were woolly dawgs from the South... Honest to God swamp folks, one from the Everglades, another from Louisiana, both excellent shots, both good trackers... bona fide back-woods boys. I mean these guys had all their hair, and I could respect them.
Both of them were quick to deny any need to protect the gator, and were offended by my pokin' my mountain boy redneck nose into their affairs. Both relayed stories of their kin and neighbors... dogs and kids disappearing, right out of the back yard... giant gators they had dispatched in 3S fashion, and etc.
Then came Bald Eagle protection, eagle flyways, etc... Thought that was my come-uppance, but no. Add the grizzly (and road closures for habitat), then the ^%#&^% Spotted_friggin_owl (tasty, btw) and all the logging destroyed. Now the bloody wolf is back, there is virtually NO PLACE to 4 wheel off road, and most areas are closed to any motorized traffic, and I wish the rest of the country would just keep their damn noses outta our business.
To my Southern friends, I apologize for my naivety. Granted, I was young and stupid, but I know now it was none of my affair, and understand the impact of such things.
If only the rest of y'all would take heed. What they take away from me, they will eventually take away from you, mark my words.
Most meat originates from a feed lot. Ranching is going going going...