January weather was much warmer and drier than normal. There is very little snow in the mountains and the daytime temperatures are mild. While this may cause drought problems in the months to come, it makes for pleasant conditions at the hot springs. The month of January saw a noticeable increase in the number of guests at the hot springs compared to past years. We've enjoyed seeing old friends and meeting new people and have been grateful for the reprieve we've had from dealing with snow and cold. Our many thanks to everybody for a pleasant and peaceful beginning to the year!

This year's first baby goats have arrived and we are thrilled to announce they are a set of triplets! The kids were born on January 29th in the middle of the warm sunny day. Since that time they are doing great and have already stolen our hearts with their exuberant personalities and adorableness!! We do have more mamas that are expected to deliver in the upcoming weeks. Anyone who would like visit the ranch and experience the playful love of a baby goat is welcome to come on down!

We are also fostering two 10 week old border collie/heeler mix puppies who are looking for loving homes. Stop by and see how much they have already learned from the time they've spent working on the ranch! For more information contact or 719-480-3336

Remember to look for baby highlands in the spring and piglets mid summer.

2017 was a banner year for volunteers with 128 dedicated people donating 8,275 hours in facilities, at the ranch and garden, as camp hosts, discovery hosts, bat tour guides and astronomy hosts. Others helped with weed pulling, trail building, consulting or as a committee member or board director. Thank you to all of the incredible people who helped last year, your participation is appreciated!

Calling all Astronomers! Last year we installed a new 16" Meade Scope. I am currently seeking volunteers who have interest in being trained to run the scope and give astronomy tours. You don't need to be a professional but a passion for astronomy and an understanding of the universe is necessary. Previous telescope experience is helpful. The schedule for astronomers would be a three night training with lead astronomer Mark Cunningham. Once you have demonstrated how to operate the equipment, you would be scheduled to run astronomy tours. A two week commitment is preferred.

Gardeners & Ranchers! 2017 saw the second Everson Ranch garden and a new green house built. Many opportunities available for help in the garden and with the animals. Experience not required, work is outdoors and very physical. Ranch volunteers camp at the Ranch, hot springs day access provided.

Our volunteers are an important part of the Orient Land Trust and help us to take excellent care of this very special place. If you have time and expertise to share, please consider becoming an active part of this program.

For the descriptions of opportunities and an application please go to our web site www.olt.org. From the home page, select Get Involved and then Volunteers. Please email me at if you have questions or would like to schedule.