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Stefanie Smallhouse explains how the ranch runs. Nina Crowder | Miner
Eating lunch at the Carlink Ranch. Nina Crowder | Miner
Andy Smallhouse demonstrates a tractor’s use to students. Nina Crowder | Miner
San Manuel Miner
Many students from San Manuel’s First Avenue Elementary School and the Mammoth STEM School enjoyed a beautiful sunshiny day at the Carlink Ranch in Redington last week. The Carlink Ranch has been in operation for 131 years raising cattle, crops and families. Owners Andy and Stefanie Smallhouse enjoy having the youth visit and showing them the day-to-day operations of the ranch.
Ranch employee Levi Tuck drove a tractor pulling students in a large hay wagon while Stefanie explained the ranch and sustainability of ranching and crops to the students on the hay ride. There are several different crops grown at the Carlink Ranch including alfalfa hay, oats and wheat. While on the hay ride several students were able to observe coyotes in the hay fields. They also observed the horses and cattle on the ranch.
Andy demonstrated the procedure they have used at the Carlink Ranch for making bio-diesel. He also gave all the students a chance to sit in the big ranch tractor and look at the way the tractors are operated for work on the ranch. Water and soil conservation practices were also explained to the students.
Rose Medina demonstrated the use of mesquite flour from mesquite seed pods and other plants in the area that can be used for healing and nutrition. Rosa made mesquite tortillas for each of the students. There was also fresh honey and prickly pear jelly to add to the tortillas. All the students enjoyed the information and fresh treat!
Harmony Wormwood was able to talk with the students about products and bi-products that can be produced from ranches. The students were also able to see some wildlife and learn about the animals that live in different environments as well.
In all it was an educational and fun day for everyone! Special thank you to the Smallhouses and their employees for taking the time with the students and teaching everyone about ranch life!
Nina Crowder is a resident of Mammoth. She volunteers in several local organizations. She covers events throughout the Copper Corridor and Superior Town and School governance.
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