The Land
Additional Information
Lonesome Pine is a roughly 47 acre self-sustaining and self suficient estate situated in Otero County in Southern New Mexico. The property is situated 14 miles down the Rio Penasco valley between the towns of Cloudcroft and Mayhill, New Mexico. Ruidoso NM and El Paso, TX are relatively close as well. As a property situated in the mountains, access during the winter months is vital. The Lonesome Pine Estate is located immediately off Hwy 130 at mile marker 14. A benefit of this location is that the highway is plowed seasonally and maintained for easy access even in the snowiest winter months. Some properties have limitations in access during the winter but Lonesome Pine is not one of those properties.
The property is composed of gorgeous and undulating land starting at the highway and spanning to the top of the ridge line where the signature "lonesome pine" tree sits. Flatter areas near the stream and pastures give way to gradually rising terraces where the barn, orchard and home are situated. The property then increases rapidly in elevation through hard woods, aspens and evergreens where it meets the national forest. This varied terrain creates both functional and visual appeal. Flat areas are well suited for growing hay and supporting livestock grazing while the terracing could be used for agriculture or Christmas tree farming. The ridge is prime for exploration of the beautiful countryside and catching wildlife sightings.
Split rail fences, roads and cattle guards run through out the property providing main access' while, backwoods, 4x4 trails in the rear of the property and leading up to the lonesome pine tree atop the ridge, give access to all aspect of the land. All structures on the property have high quality red metal roofs to unify visually and provide sturdy low maintenance enclosures.
Mountain Stream
Picturesque Pond
Picturesque Pond
One hallmark feature of the Lonesome Pine Estate is the over half a mile Rio Penasco River on the ranch. However, this is not a little trickle meandering slowly through the lower pasture, but a cascading watery feature the not only creates visual amazement but melodic waterfalls that drop over rocky ledges and pass through deep holes perfect for trout habitats.
Picturesque Pond
Picturesque Pond
Picturesque Pond
From swimming to fishing, the pond is a relaxation delight. With its dock and reeded perimeter, a day can be lost just staring into its crystal clear waters. Let the kids catch and release the friendly "pet" rainbow and brown trout or watch Rico and Donna, the ranch ducks, paddle by. This is LIVING in the southwest, except this estate has the essence of life... ample water.
Water Rights
Water Rights
Water Rights
Water rights in the Southwest are critical to the value of any estate and Lonesome Pine has 40+ acre feet of clean, old adjudicated water rights. This paired with the location of the ranch upstream at the Rio Penasco River headwaters, makes these water rights extra special. Water rights can be used, leased or sold as the owner sees fit - although consultation with an expert in water rights is advised.
Precipitation
Water Rights
Water Rights
Water is the source of life and precipitation in the form of rain, sleet, or snow feeds the mountain and gives it lushness. Living at elevation in most areas means an abundance of snow in winter months; however, the ranch is perfectly situated to experience a snow/melt situation that creates picture perfect winter scenes followed by warm snow-free days. Additionally, summer "monsoons" build in the afternoons resulting in cooling but temporary rains that give way to glorious and dry evenings.
Self-Sustainability
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Green living and sustainability isn't a popular fad here on the Lonesome Pine Estate. It is an original lifestyle that has gained mainstream popularity. For people who like to leave a tread-lightly footprint or someone who wants a self-sustaining property for planning purposes, the estate is ready for the serious or hobby prepper.
Mechanicals are ready for off-grid sustainability. Electrical can be completely powered by self tracking solar panels fueled by almost 300 days of sunshine annually. For permanent sustainability, the estate buyer can purchase and install a battery bank. The solar panels can be easily hooked up to these batteries for complete off-grid power. A 20 kw back-up generator powered by a 300 gallon propane tank pumps fresh water from the 300 foot deep water well in case of electrical interruption. The water well under normal power grid supply provides lasting water on a daily basis. A new water pump was installed in last few months. The main and relevant infrastructure for lasting off-grid living is complete with only the battery bank component as outstanding for complete survivability.
With water and power covered, sustainable food sources round out the self-contained lifestyle here at Lonesome Pine Estate. For cultivated gardening, the greenhouse extends the growing season while the roughly 30x60 foot garden plot is ready to grow vegetables and flowers to any horticulturalist's delight. Rounded out with roughly 50 fruit trees located both inside and beyond the orchard, these trees provide a plethora of apples. cherries, peaches, plums, apricots, pears and more for the picking. However, these cultivated plants pale in comparison to their wild cousins. Wild asparagus, chokecherries, roses, strawberries, plums and more create a fun foraging discovery when on a walk-about.
With approximately 47 acres and access to unfathomably more in the national forest, both livestock and wildlife prevail. Fish in both the stream and pond abound; while, livestock pastures are set up for irrigation to grow hay or for livestock grazing. Combined with prolific wildlife and public and ranch hunting permits, there are numerous harvestable options for a sustainable food source.
What does it mean to be self-sustaining?
Whether your interests lie in low footprint living or you want a retreat "just in case", Lonesome Pine Estate is an epitome of sustainability.
Orchard, Garden and Livestock Quarters
Additional Information
The estate is set up for any horticulturalists delight. Fruit trees, gardening, and livestock rearing are establish and functioning, The barn is set up with livestock pens to easily feed even in the most inclement weather. Just drop hay from the barn's loft down the chute to the mangers below and your animals can graze and remain sheltered with ease. Cattle shoots exist on the property to create maintenance and veterinary ease. The roughly 30 foot radius of the fenced round pen make exercising and training horses easy.
A special section of the estate, referred to as the "hidden garden" by the current owner, is located near the stream. This secret sanctuary is nestled past a garden gate and in a secluded area of the property. This tranquil little destination is bound by stream fueled, splash ponds that meander through this area creating a quiet place for respite or relaxation. The avid gardener or landscaper could make this area a Japanese inspired mountain sanctuary or keep its natural and organic beauty intact.
Learn More
Food sources are plentiful on Lonesome Pine Estate. Grow or raise you own. It's your choice.