Ruby Habitat Foundation

Agricultural operations - consistent with the mission and goals of the Foundation, we continued to operate the ranch for agricultural purposes, including hay production and cattle grazing. Hay and pasture were sold at market rates to generate income and offset operating expenses. Agricultural operations were implemented following best management practices including rotational grazing, soil nutrient management and irrigation water management, all in accordance with the Foundation's mission to demonstrate wise use of resources.

Outreach and education - the Foundation continued to contract with ranch resources to provide a full-time outreach coordinator. The coordinator met with hundreds of guests providing outreach and education services including ranch tours, educational events, workshops and meetings, school group events and managed recreational access for fishing and hunting. The coordinator also disseminated agricultural and natural resource information through regular newsletters, a column in the local newspaper, and weekly emails that went to several hundred subscribers. Outreach efforts also include participation in local conservation groups and projects.

Research and demonstration in line with our conservation demonstration goals, we commenced the planning and design phase of the cattail creek restoration project. Monitoring and maintenance continued on existing projects including the restoration of clear creek, the heritage apple orchard, pollinator plantings, wetland developments and soil health trials. Multiple groups visited the ranch to view one or more of the existing research and demonstration projects. Staff toured the projects and gave presentations on these efforts and results to-date. Planning efforts were completed for future research projects that will be implemented in 2024 including another stream restoration effort and soil amendment experiments.