The community is invited to the Hands for Lands volunteer work parties on Wednesday, April 17 and Thursday, April 18 at the Hutchinson Ranch. Volunteers will help clean out the Del Monte ditch in preparation of the irrigation season. Please arrive at 9am to check in. The work party will take place from 9:30am-12:30pm both days. Please RSVP through the links below.
The Hands for Lands program educates community members about the importance of working lands and the local agricultural economy and links volunteers with local farmers and ranchers to implement on-the-ground stewardship projects, including but not limited to irrigation ditch maintenance, old fence removal, noxious weed removal, and reseeding rangeland. Central Colorado Conservancy is committed to implementing programs that build agricultural resilience, supporting Chaffee County’s agricultural producers as they face the impacts of climate change and unprecedented growth and development. Hands for Lands enhances economic viability and longevity of working agricultural lands by providing volunteer labor to help with tasks that are otherwise cost and labor intensive.
The Hutchinson Ranch is a 7th generation family ranch located between Salida and Poncha Springs. This ranch provides incredible values to our community including scenic beauty, deer and elk habitat and opportunities for our children to get out on the land and learn about agriculture through educational programs at the Hutchinson Homestead. The Hutchison family does a lot for our community, and helping them with their ditch maintenance is a great way to give back.
What to wear and bring: While the days are getting warmer, please be prepared for a range of weather conditions. Please wear long pants and closed toe, sturdy shoes. Dress in layers and bring water and sun protection. If you have rubber boots, bring them. We will have tools and gloves for everyone, but you're welcome to bring your own. Loppers and pitchforks can be especially helpful. Coffee and snacks will be provided.
Please RSVP if you plan to attend either or both work parties.
April 17 RSVP: https://bit.ly/RSVP_HutchinsonRanch_April17.
April 18 RSVP: https://bit.ly/RSVP_HutchinsonRanch_April18.
Directions: From Salida, take HWY 50 toward Poncha Springs. Turn left (south) onto Poncha Springs Lane after you pass by Anytime Fitness. Drive to the end of Poncha Lane, and we will meet you at the intersection of Poncha Lane and Hutchinson Lane. You can park along Hutchinson Lane. Here's a map of the location.