LCLT’s Annual Harvest Dinner

LCLT hosted its annual Harvest Dinner on Saturday, October 21st, 5 p.m., at the community center. Speakers this year were the new farmers for Stonecrest Farm. Though they consider themselves “new farmers,” both have 12 years of ranching experience in the high country of central Colorado. Meike was influenced by a visit to Joel Salatin’s renowned farm in Virginia and Mike by finishing a degree in the Bay Area in culture, ecology, and sustainable communities. They have variously raised chickens, hogs, sheep, and a couple of milk cows in a Zone 3 climate 8000 feet above sea level. This year they received the Gunnison Conservation District’s Conservationist of the Year Award for upgrading a leased ranch’s inefficient irrigation systems and regenerating habitat for the threatened Gunnison sage grouse on the property. Mike and Meike will move to the farm in April, bringing with them their family of three children: Hetty (14), Lolo (12) and Andris (9).

Self-described as the “world’s best potluck,” people bring potluck dishes of local food. Prizes were awarded for best presentation and best use of local foods. People bring their own plates and cutlery with their potluck dish of local foods. Everyone is always welcome. Lopez Island Vineyard served wine and there was a silent auction.