The Desert Light January/February 2017 | Page 13

Here is an opportunity for all of us to contribute to something bigger than ourselves .

Save and Restore the OX Ranch

The OX Ranch Solution
Here is an opportunity for all of us to contribute to something bigger than ourselves .
We need everyone ’ s help to save and restore the OX Ranch residence , which will become the permanent housing for our Artist in Residence while they are at work on projects .
Back Story
Mojave National Preserve does not have a permanent residence for its artists as many of our other national parks do . Currently , artists camp , stay at the California Desert Studies Center near Baker , CA or use one of the hotels in Primm , NV . Artists often drive 70 miles or more round trip to work in various areas of Mojave National Preserve ; a 2400 square mile park twice the size of Rhode Island . Consequently , they trade windshield time for creative time , consuming fuel and creating a carbon footprint larger than necessary .
The OX Ranch , which located in the middle of Mojave National Preserve , is a great housing solution .
The headquarters ranch home has water and power and can be reached with a two-wheel drive vehicle most of the year via an improved dirt road . While the two-bedroom facility is in sound condition , it is need of repairs before we can occupy the site .
Jan / Feb 2017 | THE DESERT LIGHT 13