DAY FOUR: Awesome AMS

We had planned for our first day in refugio to be a chill day, but after exploring in the morning and getting ot know the land and animals, many of us were ready to get to work. There had been hurricane damage on the grounds, so we cut and moved some logs around the loquat trees, which sadly are not ripe yet. They had been hit pretty hard by a freeze a few weeks back.

After that, we got together and helped move a horse trailer that had been all but dead and collecting ants and thorns. We worked with Noe and Saul, who are the two refugees here now. We have been getting to know them, though the language barrier made it slow the first few days.

The students on this trip are doing so well. Everyone has been helpful and responsible, more than one person at a time volunteering to do something that isn't necessarily his or her chore. I was impressed that on a day when we were sccheduled to be relaxed and not working, so many people actually wanted to do work projects.

The spirit has continued, too. We have taken on a number of work projects, and our students have been highly motivated and hard working. When we weren't working, they have been interacting well and positive in mood. We will have a lot more to say about this, but if you know or care about these guys, you should be proud. I am.

Jason S

DAY FOUR: Exploring Refugio

This was supposed to be our day of rest after a million miles and twice as many hours on the road. We all spent it exploring the desert-like landscape of cacti, mesquite, cows, horses and, of course, Jorge the Emu.


We found some amazing flora, like the cactus-tree that was taller than any of us. At its base, the cactus skin was thick and brown. It looked like it had grown bark, and the body was as thick as your leg. There are several tiny, round cacti that we will be replanting later around the offices, and there are long, finger thin cacti the surround some of the trees. Walter discovered that the pointy tips are sharp.


The grounds of Refugio are beautiful but simple. There are a few dormitories, a kitchen and dining hall, some tool sheds, scattered buildings for animals, and the ubiquitous Chulo Jorge.

We met the horses, Karma and Colaca. Then we met the cows. Tessa made special friends with the bull. One mother just had a calf fifteen days ago. We will be helping the refugees learn to milk her later during our stay here.

DAY FOUR: Jorge the Emu

Who doesn't love a massive, dinosaur-faced creature with three-toed feet larger than the average hand?

Chulo Jorge was one of our first sights as we arrived at Refugio del Rio Grande, and he has been a regular amigo. He loves people, is always curious to see what is happening, and enjoys being the subject of attention. Though his appearance is intimidating, he is a very tame and sweet creature.


The students have all been fascinated by him, as have the staff. He wanders the yards like all the other animals, and often will walk straight up to you and stare you in the face. His eyes close from the bottom, and their giant orange irises are most strange. He is as tame as can be, though he hates puppies.

Most important, however, is that Noah discovered a new form of renewable energy transport.