Stewardship

Sustainable practices

At our educational farm nestled in the heart of Southwest Colorado, sustainability is not just a practice but a way of life. We prioritize sustainable agriculture methods that honor the land and its natural resources. From organic farming techniques to water conservation strategies, we strive to minimize our environmental footprint while maximizing productivity. 

Our farm employs regenerative practices like crop rotation, composting, and integrated pest management to nurture the soil and promote biodiversity. Through workshops and demonstrations, we empower visitors to embrace sustainable living principles and be stewards of their own communities.

Farmers harvesting greens in a field
Cows resting in a field

Beef cattle production

Fort Lewis is committed to raising cattle that are adaptable to high elevation and earn their keep on the land. The herd utilizes over 5,000 acres of grazing lands in a rotational program. Our grass-fed beef program incorporates genetics that are bred to finish on grass with no supplemental feed. Our cows are all born and raised in Hesperus with outside bulls used to bring in new genetics. Our staff is BQA (Beef Quality Assurance) certified, and we utilize low stress handling techniques in our corrals.

Benefit to the community

As a cornerstone of the local community, our farm plays a vital role in fostering connections and promoting holistic well-being. Beyond providing fresh, local produce and humanely raised meat products, we serve as a gathering place where people of all ages come together to learn, connect, and grow. 

Our events, workshops, and volunteer opportunities offer enriching experiences that empower individuals to make positive changes in their lives and communities. Through outreach programs and partnerships with local and regional organizations, we strive to cultivate a sustainability, health, and resilience culture, ensuring a brighter future for future generations.

A person smiling and holding a weaving project

The Old Fort

18683 CO-140
Hesperus, CO 81326
 oldfortathesperus@fortlewis.edu
 970-385-4574

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Land Acknowledgement 

We acknowledge the land that the Old Fort is situated upon is the ancestral land and territory of the Nuuchiu (Ute) people who were forcibly removed by the United States Government. We also acknowledge that this land is connected to the communal and ceremonial spaces of the Jicarilla Abache (Apache), Pueblos of New Mexico, Hopi Sinom (Hopi), and Diné (Navajo) Nations.

The Old Fort and Fort Lewis College are committed to reconciling their history as a federal Indian Boarding School from 1892 to 1909.

Learn more about reconciliation

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The Old Fort is owned by the Colorado State Land Board and managed by Fort Lewis College.


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