Ranch Wishlist

For several years, our ranch has run completely out of water for about three months in late summer and again in winter.

We urgently need to create a new pond or well to ensure a steady year-round water source for the buffalo and sanctuary.

We are a fully organic ranch, with no pesticides or chemicals.

Our seven hayfields (about 60 acres) and 40 acres of buffalo pasture need rejuvenation.

We plan to enrich the soil with trace minerals, lime, or other organic amendments to restore nutrients and strengthen the grasses.

We’ll begin with the hayfields and then move to the pastures the buffalo aren’t grazing in.

Our current handling gear is worn and incomplete.

We need to purchase a new, safe handling system and chute, which will be moved to the upper pasture area.

This will make caring for the herd safer and gentler for both the buffalo and our volunteer handlers.

We need to produce at least 110 bales of hay to feed the buffalo through the fall and winter seasons.

Each bale weighs about 800 pounds, and producing this much hay requires fuel, equipment, and labor.

We will post the cost per bale as soon as we know this year’s fuel and hay contractor rates.

Feeding the herd is one of our most essential and ongoing needs.

Our organic garden provides food for the Guardians and nourishment for the land and herd.

We need help grooming and preparing the garden, trimming our apple and pear trees, and purchasing chicken feed for the hens that provide eggs for our volunteers.

These areas bring balance and sustenance to the ranch, reflecting our harmony with the land.

Our current circular saw has seen better days.

We need a new one for on going repairs, carpentry, and maintenance projects — from fencing and barn work to small structures that protect our animals and equipment.