Santa Ynez is a virtual nursery in the spring. In the equestrian facilities, we see long-legged foals. Cattle ranches feature calves. Usually they're more tranquil than the three in this photo, but this bunch sure looks like they're having fun.
Woodstock Ranch leases the grazing rights to its common areas. Now it's a second home to steers who munch the wild grass and enjoy the panoramic views. Clearing the land with cows is a truly green approach. The rancher pays for the right to have his cows roam and get fat on the native plants.
There's a company a few miles away that leases goats to remove grass and scrub. In that case, the economics are reversed. Usually owners of land with difficult terrain pay for the goats to be delivered and act as environmentally correct weed eaters.
Regardless of the dollar flow, grazing animals can be a great example of energy conservation.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Santa Ynez Springtime
Santa Ynez bursts with life in the spring. My favorite new creatures are foals. Here's a picture of an Arab mare and her baby.
This morning I drove past Magali Farms which is about five minutes away from Ridgeline Ranch. It's a large equestrian facility specializing in thoroughbreds.
I stopped by a broad green pasture, mesmerized by the tranquil scene. There must have been twenty mares and foals enjoying the morning air. The mares were grazing lush green grass and the foals, basking in the sun, slept beside them. One little colt was standing on long, spindly legs nursing while his mother munched her greens. Such a beautiful serene view!
This morning I drove past Magali Farms which is about five minutes away from Ridgeline Ranch. It's a large equestrian facility specializing in thoroughbreds.
I stopped by a broad green pasture, mesmerized by the tranquil scene. There must have been twenty mares and foals enjoying the morning air. The mares were grazing lush green grass and the foals, basking in the sun, slept beside them. One little colt was standing on long, spindly legs nursing while his mother munched her greens. Such a beautiful serene view!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Back in the Saddle Again in Santa Ynez
Santa Ynez Valley certainly looks beautiful after spending weeks in Los Angeles with a sick relative. The tranquility of Ridgeline Ranch is more than welcome after the buzz of the city.
Of course, Ridgeline Ranch is especially peaceful because of its location adjacent to UCSB's Sedgwick Reserve. One of a handful of homes neighboring this 6,000 natural preserve, Ridgeline Ranch is a rare property with its seclusion and panoramic views.
Of course, Ridgeline Ranch is especially peaceful because of its location adjacent to UCSB's Sedgwick Reserve. One of a handful of homes neighboring this 6,000 natural preserve, Ridgeline Ranch is a rare property with its seclusion and panoramic views.
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