Experience of working on a self-sufficient Spanish farm, Curly Creek Ranch, focusing on sustainable development, animal welfare, and environmental conservation.
Extract
[...] I will first present the history of Curly Creek Ranch and its overall mode of operation. I will then share my experience of living on this farm through the missions carried out and the difficulties encountered. Finally, I will detail the efforts made by the owners to integrate sustainable development into their project, particularly the environmental pillar. 1. Overview of the Curly Creek Ranch The Curly Creek Ranch, located in the small Spanish village of Oskotz, in the Navarre mountains, is a 1.2-hectare family-owned property managed by private individuals. [...]
[...] To avoid contaminating common areas, we were required to use prevention measures. A locker room was available for us to put on work clothes before going outside. We also had to be equipped with boots, gloves, and even masks for the most sensitive individuals. In terms of worker safety, we had to always be calm and cautious when interacting with animals, especially with horses. In some cases, we might have had to wear gloves to handle delicate objects or tools. [...]
[...] They arranged the farm buildings so that it is 'super-efficient' with optimal insulation. They are seeking to preserve natural resources by relying on renewable energies. The Curly Creek ranch is indeed based on the concept of an energy island, that is, self-consumption1 total energy needs of an agricultural installation. The electricity comes from the solar panels installed on the roof and wind energy. The ranch has storage batteries and a backup generator, for periods of days without sun or in case of high demand. [...]
[...] I chose this ranch to immerse myself in the world of sustainable farms for a month. It's an opportunity for me to discover how a farm that prioritizes environmental respect operates. I would gain insight into its organization from the position of a farm worker. At the same time, I could improve my practice of Spanish and English. By going to this farm, I want to experience an autonomous and efficient way of life, away from society. It's a concept that attracts me, but also raises many fears and questions. [...]
[...] Level of integration of sustainable development 3.1. Definition of sustainable development by the different stakeholders of the farm Sustainable development occupies a central place in the organization of the farm. The owners consider that their way of life 'combines their love of animals and the environment with a deep commitment to sustainability.' As a resident of the farm, explained to me how she perceives this notion: 'We came here to show that it is possible to live sustainably while having everything you need in the 21st century. [...]
