On the edge of Townsend, Montana, alongside South Front Street (Highway 287), a new, or rather very old, kind of feed store has taken root. Little Creek Feed isn’t just a place to pick up bags of grain or mineral tubs – it’s a gathering place, built on the belief that small towns thrive when neighbors have a place to connect. 

Caroline and Justin Nelson, the ranching couple behind Little Creek Feed, opened the doors in June of 2024 under circumstances that might give any sane person pause. Caroline was just weeks away from giving birth to their first child when they decided to take the leap. The day after their son was born, they were negotiating lease terms for the building, now branded the Townsend Mercantile. The Nelsons teamed up with two other businesses, J Rock Jewelry and C Hangin’ C Mercantile and Creamery, to share rent and utilities.  

The goal of Little Creek Feed is simple: provide high-quality livestock feed, supplies and local meats with a level of service that feels personal. “I felt like our community had lost its third space where ranchers can just hang out,” Caroline said in an interview with On Land, “We wanted to bring that back.” 

I felt like our community had lost its third space where ranchers can just hang out,” Caroline said in an interview with On Land, “We wanted to bring that back.

The warehouse and retail space are stocked with Montana-made products whenever possible – local mineral mixes, high-quality hay, even locally produced dog treats from the Nelson’s direct-to-consumer meat business, Little Creek Lamb & Beef. But it’s not just what they sell that sets them apart. A pot of coffee is always on, and customers often stick around, chatting about the weather, cattle prices, or the latest calving-season challenges. “We want to know everyone,” Justin added. 

It’s early days yet for Little Creek Feed, but the response from the community has been encouraging. With the first full summer season ahead, the couple and their growing team is looking forward to growing their business and deepening their ties to their ranching community. 

For now, they’re focused on the little things – knowing customers by name, stocking what locals need, and making sure everyone who walks in feels like more than just a transaction. At Little Creek Feed, the coffee is always on. 

Watch the full On Land Podcast interview with Caroline and Justin Nelson of Little Creek Feed!

Or listen to the podcast here.