Historic O'Keefe Ranch is bouncing back after a dismal 2020

Like so many other attractions, 2020 was a rough year for Historic O'Keefe Ranch.

The sudden and unexpected collapse of the tourism sector due to COVID-19 hit the ranch hard.

Deep cuts, including reducing staffing levels to the bare minimum, were necessary to keep the 154-year-old ranch afloat.

But the ranch weathered the storm and O’Keefe Ranch and Interior Heritage Society President Bruce Cumming said they are optimistic for 2021.

“We were in a very tough spot, but we managed our way out of it and we are in good shape looking forward,” said Cummings.

The ranch will keep its traditional Mother's Day opening this year, but they are not out of the financial woods just yet.

The huge financial loss from 2020 has ripples into 2021 as the ranch strives to return staffing levels while maintaining some of the oldest buildings in the province.

“Our mandate is to look after the collection out there,” said Cummings, noting most of the buildings are owned by the city, but others are owned by the society.

“Trying to divert money into maintenance has been very difficult and it's impossible without grants, so we are constantly applying for infrastructure-type grants.”

An area of concern last year was the animals that call the ranch home. The goats, pigs, chickens and other critters still had to be fed and cared for even in the middle of a pandemic and when the call for help went out, the citizens of Vernon answered.

“We had a campaign in the summer, preparing for the winter to look after the animals and so many people stepped up we had enough to cover the animals over the winter,” said Cummings.

Currently, the ranch is open by donation and Cummings said last year's season passes will be honoured this year.

“And of course we will sell you one too,” Cummings said with a chuckle. “If you want a seasons pass, they're cheap.”