With these longest days of summer upon us, the majority of Hutchinson Ranch cows are now in their summer grazing pastures in the San Luis Valley and Marshall Pass, and the fields on the ranch are quickly growing tall, destined to be next winter’s hay crop.
Life on the ranch, however, doesn’t slow down, but continues to focus on irrigating, checking cows and caring for the few animals that remain on the ranch year-round. Whether cattle, horses, or hard-working herding dogs, animals play a significant role in ranching and farming activities throughout the year, and a primary role of a farmer or rancher is to care for these animals on a daily basis.
Guidestone provides children with the opportunity to learn more about animals that are raised on ranches through Animals On the Ranch Camp, a 3-day experiential camp held at the HH&LC. Mid-June, fourteen kids spent three days exploring the variety of animals raised on a farm or ranch and the roles they play (Meat, Dairy, Fiber, Eggs, Work/ Transportation, Friendship). The group had direct experience working with cows, horses, goats, chickens, pigs, llamas, donkeys and a rabbit. In addition, they had the opportunity to learn animal communication & physiology from a local large animal vet, dye natural fibers with local fiber artists who raise their own sheep, and learn about life on a historic dairy.
Agricultural learning experiences like this one help teach kids about where their food comes from, the skills it takes to grow and raise food, and the role agriculture plays in our community, both historically and today. There is still time to register for other Farmhands Programs at the HH&LC this summer!
Please visit www.GuidestoneColorado.org for program descriptions and to register!
Special thanks to the following guest presenters that helped make Animals On the Ranch Camp such a wonderful learning experience for our Farmhands Campers!
Abby Hutchinson
Harold & Judy Starbuck
Dr. Annie Schultz
Nancy Hunt
Jane Steiner
Robin Ziperman
Tom McConaghey