Welcome to Aliso Viejo Ranch, a site that beautifully interlaces California’s agricultural past with its sustainable future. This historic landmark, located in Aliso Viejo, California, has roots that trace back to the Moulton Ranch era of the late 19th century. The ranch was part of a vast 22,000-acre expanse owned by the Moulton family, a pioneering force in the agricultural development of Orange County.
In the late 1800s, the Moulton Ranch became a significant player in the region’s ranching and farming landscape. Originally granted to Juan Avila by the Mexican government in 1842, the land was later acquired by the Moulton family in the 1890s. As Orange County transformed from rural expanses into bustling suburbs, pieces of the Moulton Ranch were sold off, paving the way for communities like Laguna Hills and Laguna Niguel. However, a segment of this agricultural haven remained, which is now preserved as Aliso Viejo Ranch.
Today, Aliso Viejo Ranch stands as a testament to the area’s rich heritage. The site is not just a window into the past but a vibrant hub of education and sustainability. Recent developments have seen the restoration of historical buildings and the introduction of a working farm. This farm, complete with orchards and aquaponics systems, provides locally sourced food to community programs, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable agriculture.
The ranch is a collaborative effort, involving partnerships with educational institutions like Soka University and Saddleback College, local schools, and various community organizations. These collaborations ensure that the ranch serves as an educational platform, offering hands-on experiences in farming, biology, and environmental science.
Visitors can explore the site’s historic barn and bunkhouse, now repurposed for community events and educational programs. Aliso Viejo Ranch showcases the evolution of Orange County from its agricultural roots to its current status as a booming economic region, while also highlighting the importance of preserving our natural and historical heritage for future generations.
