What a .ra file is
A RanchAssist Project File is a user-controlled local file that preserves the editable state of one RanchAssist project. Its file extension is .ra.
Use a .ra file when you want to stop working and later reopen the same project with its inputs, settings, notes, scenarios, and—when applicable—map geometry and map state.
What a .ra file is not
A .ra file is not RanchAssist cloud storage and does not require a RanchAssist account. It is also not the same as a PDF, CSV, PNG, GeoJSON, printout, email, or copied summary.
.ra= continue editing the RanchAssist project.- PDF / Print = readable report.
- CSV = tabular data.
- PNG = visual image.
- GeoJSON = spatial feature exchange.
- Email / Copy Summary = communication.
What is stored
A project file includes shared metadata such as the project ID, project name, originating tool, tool version, format version, creation time, and last-saved time. It also includes the tool-specific editable state required to reconstruct meaningful work.
Map-based tools may also preserve geometry, layer state, camera position, and feature metadata.
What is not stored
RanchAssist project files must not contain private API keys, Mapbox credentials, OAuth tokens, passwords, session cookies, server-side secrets, or executable code.
Project identity
Each saved project has a stable project UUID. Repeated saves of the same project preserve that identity. Duplicate Project creates a separate project lineage with a new UUID.
After opening a project
RanchAssist restores the source inputs and editable state, then recalculates derived values using the current tool logic. Saved calculated outputs are not treated as authoritative if the current tool can recompute them.
Best practice
Keep your .ra file with the other records for that project and use a clear project name, such as North_Pasture_Fence.ra or 2026_Winter_Feed_Plan.ra.
