Operation Independence is our road to long-term sustainability. We want to grow our own food year-round and raise our own beef, pork, eggs and other foodstuffs. We are looking at ways to generate our own energy, and investigating irrigation systems that use pond and well water. Our Ranchers and staff contribute their time, talents and labor to these and other efforts as we become a model self-reliant community. • Want to make a donation to help move us toward our goal? Download this form to send in a donation through the mail, or click the "Donate" button to make a secure donation online. Help Spread the Word! Email Your Friends About Operation Independence!

Rain is a wonderful thing, but the past several months have turned our caliche roads into a real mess, with potholes as big around as tires and deep enough to test your shock absorbers.

Mike Dodges Potholes in front of Gabriel House

The Ranchers have improved their driving skills learning to dodge them in their golf carts and on their bikes. They really love being able to transport themselves around the Ranch, but that's getting harder and harder to do. That's a shame, because it's a big part of their sense of independence, so we're asking for help to chip and seal the main roads they use. This will cost around $75,000. If you can help financially, please make a donation to Operation Independence. Of you know somebody with a road building company who would like to make a big difference to some neat people, tell them about Down Home Ranch!

Sterling, John, and Kyle pick out their future rooms at Isaiah House

This is a new slab and those three guys will live in the house we are going to build on it. We will call it Isaiah House, and we will build it when we have enough money. Right now Sterling, Kyle, Travis, and John live in another county—in Joseph House—and they really want to live in The Village with all their friends. We need $81,782 to frame up and dry in Isaiah House. The guys have set their hearts on being in their new home by Thanksgiving, and they want to know if you can help us get the job done and make a donation today.