Committed to advancing the understanding of natural ecosystems and wilderness values, the ranch hosts appropriate research and education projects. In winter, mule deer, elk, and bighorn sheep graze the bunchgrass bench across Big Creek. The unique rutting behavior of big-horn sheep can be observed from the field station. Mountain lions, black bears, bobcats, and coyotes are common area predators. The Big Creek riparian area provides habitat for many migratory and resident bird species.
Big Creek is one of the best native cutthroat trout fisheries in Idaho.
Anadromous runs of Chinook salmon and steelhead use the spawning beds near the ranch. It is accessible throughout the year by bush plane. Because it is often desirable to move camp gear to remote sites, the ranch maintains a few pack animals.