Location and Background

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is in Southern Arizona in the Sonoran Desert. The park is along the Mexico-United States border and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Cornerstones is working on several projects in the Monument, including the preservation of a 1920 adobe ranch house called Dos Lomitas Ranch House.

Building History

Dos Lomitas Ranch House (also called Blankenship Ranch House) is a 1920 adobe building that is representative of Sonoran vernacular architecture. It is a single story adobe building with exposed beams, saguaro rib latillas, and mud plaster walls. There was once a mesquite post and saguaro rib ramada surrounding the house.

Scope of Work

Stabilize adobe walls using unamended, traditional materials
Correct drainage surrounding structure
Repair existing roof and parapet with modern materials
Interior earthen plaster repairs

VOLUNTEER INFO

Dates and Time

Mid February, typically Monday-Friday from 8am-4:30pm, Feb 14-25th.

Housing and Camping

A group campground will be available for volunteers. It is very spacious and has toilets, a shower, and potable water nearby. Volunteers are expected to bring camping equipment. Please reach out to learn more about the camping set up.

Site Access

A high clearance vehicle is recommended to get to the jobsite. The building is located approximately 500ft from the international border. There is little to no access to amenities while on the job. Come prepared to bring drinking water, lunch, and to follow Leave No Trace Principles.

Volunteer Needs

On this job, we can only accommodate 1-2 volunteers at a time. Typically it is best if people are able to come in full week intervals, but if you are unable to commit to that we may be able to accommodate your schedule.

Following the Department of the Interior guidelines, all volunteers must be vaccinated against COVID-19.