GYP HILLS, Kan. (AP) — As his mud-covered pickup comes over a rise on a recent morning, mist blankets the horizon of Gyp Hills grass.

Rancher Dave Johnson is out feeding his pregnant cows like he does several days a week during the winter. They follow behind his pickup as he drops them cake — or high-protein supplement pellets. They eat it up as if it were candy as Johnson drives through another gate, preparing to feed another herd.

As spring sets in, the pastures are awakening with green grass and colorful wildflowers. Young wobbly-legged calves frolic beside their mothers.

Life is returning...