How Ranch Owners Can Prepare Their Properties for Storm Season

Ranches are built to be resilient, but that doesn’t mean they’re invincible. When storm season rolls in, high winds, heavy rain, and lightning can do real damage to your land and structures. The key to protecting everything you've built is preparation. With a few smart safety measures and timely repairs, you can minimize risk and help your ranch withstand even the roughest weather.

Inspect and Reinforce Key Structures

Start with a thorough inspection of your ranch’s main buildings. Roofs, barns, sheds and fencing should all be checked for weak spots, cracks or signs of wear that could worsen in a storm. Loose shingles, rusted nails, cracked beams or sagging roofs are red flags that need to be addressed before high winds or hail turn them into major problems.

Make sure all doors, windows and garage openings close securely. For barns and stables, check that latches are in good condition and large doors can be tightly sealed to protect animals and equipment.

Clear Trees and Overhanging Branches

One of the most common sources of storm damage comes from falling limbs. Take a walk around your property and identify trees that are dead, leaning or have large limbs hanging over buildings, animal enclosures or fences. Trim branches away from structures and power lines and remove any trees that show signs of disease or instability.

Professional tree trimming services can safely handle large or high-up limbs, especially if they pose a risk to livestock areas or housing.

Check and Repair Fencing

Storm-strength winds and debris can knock over or damage fencing, creating an immediate safety issue for livestock. Walk the perimeter of your pastures and corrals and look for signs of wear like leaning posts, sagging wire or loose connections. Repair or reinforce any sections that are weak.

Electric fencing systems should be tested to ensure they’re functioning properly. Make sure backup power is available if your fences rely on battery or solar power, which could be impacted during a prolonged outage.

Prepare Outdoor Spaces and Equipment

Before severe weather, secure patio furniture, grills, planters and other outdoor items that could be damaged or become hazards in high winds.

Check that gates and fences are latched, and make sure tools or lawn equipment are safely stored. If you have horses boarded at the community stables, the Ranger Ridge team handles all animal care and safety during storms, giving you one less thing to worry about.

Check Drainage and Runoff Areas

Heavy rainfall can cause erosion, washouts and flooding in vulnerable areas of your property. Make sure culverts, ditches and run-off paths are clear of debris and flowing freely. Check that drainage systems are positioned to direct water away from structures on your property.

If your ranch has low-lying areas that tend to flood, consider temporary berms, sandbags or gravel to create barriers. For long-term improvements, you may want to invest in grading or reshaping land to direct water more effectively.

Secure Equipment and Vehicles

Storm winds can toss unsecured tools and equipment around like toys. Store tractors, trailers and other heavy machinery under cover if possible.

Smaller equipment like lawnmowers, chainsaws, fuel containers or tools should be stored in a locked shed or barn. Don’t leave tarps or fencing materials out in the open, they can quickly become hazards in strong winds.

Before the storm hits, fuel up vehicles, check tires and batteries and make sure emergency kits are stocked.

Perform Repairs Promptly After a Storm

Once a storm has passed, assess damage as soon as it’s safe to do so. Walk your property to check for fallen trees, downed fences, roof damage and signs of flooding. Document everything with photos for insurance purposes. Repair damage quickly to avoid more costly problems down the road and to get your ranch back to normal as quickly as possible.

If repairs are extensive, don’t be afraid to call in professionals, as timely repairs make all the difference.

Storm Preparation Builds Long-Term Resilience

Preparing your ranch for storms isn’t just about surviving a single event, it’s about building a more resilient property that can weather whatever nature throws your way. Taking time now to inspect, reinforce and prepare will save money, stress and hardship later.

At Ranger Ridge Estates, we know the value of strong land stewardship and proactive planning. That’s why we’re proud to be a resource for members looking to create safer, more sustainable properties.

Worry Less About Storm Damage by Buying in Ranger Ridge Estates

At Ranger Ridge Estates, peace of mind comes built in. Homeowners here enjoy the freedom of ranch living without the usual worries thanks to expertly managed common areas, professionally maintained amenities and new custom homes designed for resilience.

When storms roll through, residents can relax knowing the Ranger Ridge team is handling the hard work of securing the community. Contact us today at (940) 424-2678 to learn more about the Ranger Ridge experience or to schedule your private tour.