Few things can describe the roller coaster ride we’ve been through over the last several weeks, and yet, we have been blessed beyond compare by the hard work and dedication of so many who protected our camp from the El Dorado fire. It did spread onto our property, burning vegetation across Inspiration Point (the crosses still stand!) and down near the creek. Sam’s Peak was burned and our water tower was scorched causing significant damage to the roof and wooden structure. Fortunately, no other damage to the property has been reported. We continue to be amazed by the masterful work of our firefighters. We thank God for them and for so many who worked hard to keep people and places safe during this entire ordeal. The recovery process will be a long one as we truly won’t know the impact of the heat damage to trees and other wildlife for a few years.
Moving Forward
Temporary/Contracted support staff will be hired in the coming months to assist with big project repairs and maintenance. We are also inviting small groups to engage in retreat style stays at Loch Leven beginning in November (we are unable to provide programming for groups and meals will be an extra charge upon request only). All those who would like to have a retreat at Loch Leven will be held to the CDC guidelines of appropriate social behaviors during a pandemic. Our hope is that camp friends will volunteer to assist with camp clean up, small work projects, and gardening to promoting healing for Loch Leven. You can begin scheduling a work day or retreat at Loch Leven after October 26th. Visit our website starting October 16 to find more details about pricing and availability. An online form will be available to sign up for dates to visit. A member of our Loch Leven team will contact you to coordinate details and to plan any work projects with which you are interested in helping.
We have been spending every available minute working to recover from COVID and the El Dorado Fire. We are tremendously thankful for the outpouring of support, the patience extended to our very small staff, and for the prayers of so many. Although at times the journey has tested our strength, we see in notes of encouragement and contributions from so many that God is with us and we will make it through it… if we do it TOGETHER!
Please continue to SHOW YOUR LOVE TO LOCH LEVEN by giving financial gifts, offering work projects, building fundraisers at your church/community, and whatever other ideas you may have to help Loch Leven become more vibrant than ever before. Thank you in advance!