Lehman Orchard Management Plan

Unrau, Harlan

The Lehman Orchard is a small stand of fruit trees located just east of the Lehman Caves visitor center in Great Basin National Park. The area was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 as representative of an “early agricultural accomplishment, based on irrigation in an area more suitable for cattle grazing.” The remnant orchard that exists today consists of seven apricot trees and a peach tree. Although quite old, the trees continue to produce fruit. This document is concerned with the overall management of the orchard and techniques to perpetuate its historic genetic resources. Although restoration of the original historic scene is not practical nor recommended, aesthetics and historic interpretation have been considered in formulating management actions. By virtue of its designation as a National Register Site, Great Basin National Park is charged with managing the Lehman Orchard in such a manner that its historic character and fabric are maintained. Though the site of the Lehman Orchard is significant, many alterations have taken place over the years which have compromised its historic integrity. It is not the intent of this management plan to physically reconstruct the historic scene of the Lehman “Cave Ranche.” Too many changes have taken place to make this either desirable or practical. It cannot be deciphered as to which owner made certain improvements. The area does, however, offer a wonderful opportunity for imaginative reconstruction through interpretation and this theme will be included in the Park’s Interpretive Prospectus.

Lehman Orchard Management Plan

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