Ranch Diversification Support
Rancho San Felipe is an example of a farm operating next to lands proposed for protection from mining—in this case, by being designated part of Nopolo Park.
Farmer tends to a drought-resistant crop.
The entire area of Loreto’s 11 watersheds has been dedicated traditionally to ranching by people who live there.
However, if the ranches fail to provide the resident families with enough income, the land is at risk of being mined or overdeveloped for part-time residents.
Profitable new products will help ranchers resist the temptation to abandon their lands to mining or mega development.
Drought Resistant Crops
Sierra de la Giganta stays mine-free because of stakeholders that care for the watershed via goat farming
Via a grant from New England International Donors, Keep Loreto Magical is supporting the growth of low water use, spineless nopal and low-water-consumption cane (GMO) for goat dairy products.
The crop supports twenty-three ranchers who provide milk, cheese and meat to the community.
If the ranchers stay on the land with these crops, then the most valuable part of the watershed for aquifer recharge will not be available for mega mining development.
Protection for roadside-grazing livestock
As dairy goats and donkeys move along highway margins or cross roads, reflective strips alert drivers to their presence and protect them from being struck by vehicles.
EVENTS
Ranch Voluntourism
Ranchers play an important role in Loreto’s heritage and vitality. Keep Loreto Magical respects and honors these stalwart families, who, from time to time, give guided tours of their ranchos to visitors.