There is a peacefulness as your cross the cattle guard at the Lowell Ranch on Plum Creek. It sits on 168 acres of beauty and purpose about 12 miles to our southeast. Originally homesteaded in 1878, members of the Lowell family came to the ranch in 1906 and have occupied and owned the ranch since.

In 2002, John and Bea Lowell, who were steadfast supporters of the ranching and rural lifestyle, 4-H and other youth activities, created the nonprofit Colorado Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) to preserve a piece of rural life within the suburbs and promote agricultural education.

Today, Linus Leppink manages the ranch, including a dozen plus kids who are selected each year to raise livestock, mostly for show at the fair. They are called CALF Kids.

No ranch? No problem. CALF Kids purchase 8-week-old animals and CALF provides the facility. Early mornings, twice daily visits, rain or shine, 365 days a year – it is a big commitment to care for and grow the animals which include pigs, chickens, goats, sheep and cattle.

Developing a feeding plan is very important. For example, the proper weight for a pig at fair is 230 to 290 pounds. Too much or too little food can affect the pig’s weight and health. Making plans for emergencies or inclement weather is also key, as animals need daily care. Linus can step in when needed, but that is the exception.

“I told my kids, family vacations or CALF. We can’t do both,” said Leah Brown, who is the mom of several CALF Kids as well as the program director.

“Life would be boring without CALF,” shared 16-year-old CALF Kid and ranch hand Camden Brown, who found CALF during a second-grade field trip. He has developed knowledge of wildlife, horticulture, livestock, landscaping, grounds keeping and problem-solving skills through CALF.

“My favorite part is watching these little kids turn into big kids and how much they grow,” shared Linus who started as a seasonal employee at 17 and has been living on site as the ranch manager for eight years.

CALF also hosts educational programs. Camp CALF is designed for third through seventh graders who want to get dirty and learn about agriculture and how it ties to the real world – like how butter is made and how seeds turn into plants. Heritage Days focuses on the Colorado Gold Rush and matches up with fourth grade curriculum. A fall water awareness program for fifth and sixth graders offers a glimpse into everything it takes to grow crops.

The ranch also has a community garden. Seasonal flowers, plants and veggies can be planted and cared for during spring and summer months. Annual applications are accepted on the website each spring before May 1.

There is something for everyone at CALF. A great way to explore the ranch is during Harvest Day. This year it is on September 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a pumpkin patch, wagon rides, pressed apple juice, hayrides, barbecue and more. Entry is free.

Finally, the annual Legends of Agriculture dinner and fundraiser is planned for September 20. When the last of the animals have been sold, the little red barn turns into a festive venue to support the Lowell’s mission.

To learn more, visit www.thecalf.org.

 

Article and photos by Elean Gersack