It has grown slowly and is still in a formative stage. A large number of spiritual and environmental organizations are based in this area, and have in recent years attracted younger people with great interest in alternative and ecologically sound living. This valley at 8,000 feet above sea level, is surrounded by snow capped peaks of up to 14,000 feet on three sides, and sits on one of the largest fresh water aquifers in the world.
Air quality is usually of very high calibre, and clear content.
The mountains and valley make their own climate in this unique combination of high desert and alpine geography. The soil is a mix of sand, clay, cobble and rock. There is great interest by residents in setting sound standards for environmentally friendly activities, interventions and development, identifying key natural resources, and establishing conscious programs of stewardship to preserve them, including, but not limited to - water, power and transportation conservation, sewage treatment, building materials, methods and techniques, and careful consideration of community and neighborhood design. Because bear and mountain lion live here, standard wilderness precautions apply. Feeding of game animals is strictly prohibited, and the feeding of all other wild animals is strongly discouraged.