We Bought Fly Ranch

Wait, what?

Burning Man Project has purchased the Fly Ranch property, 3,800 acres of land located twenty-one miles north of Gerlach in Washoe County, Nevada.

fly-map

Why? Here’s the gist of it: Those who have been deeply affected by a Burning Man event or experience have often asked, “How can we bring this beyond the event?” “How can we make this really matter?”  And we too have wondered, “What would it mean to have a year-round location beyond the playa? What if we had a place to experiment with and apply the Ten Principles 365 days a year, in addition to the one-week event?”

In 2012 we became a nonprofit with the intention of amplifying and extending Burning Man culture. So here we are, taking a big step in that direction. As a year-round site, Fly Ranch has the potential to expand Burning Man Project’s activities and existing programs, as well as amplify Burning Man’s cultural impact into the wider world beyond Black Rock City.

fly-aerial

Buying the property is the first step on a long journey. As stewards of this unique piece of land, our foremost responsibility is to ensure it will be maintained for generations to come. This will require planning and preparation. We have to lay the groundwork first. Then, we’ll spend the next few years exploring the possibilities for Fly Ranch.

Check out the Fly Ranch website to get involved!

You may be asking yourself, “What does this mean for us? What can we do with this? How will this benefit the community?” The answers will unfold slowly, over a period of time. We’re a long way from defining exactly what will happen at Fly Ranch, but it’s not too early to begin dreaming of the potential. We’re inspired by this milestone and hope you are too. At this stage there are simply more questions than answers.

fly-water

What we do know is this: Fly Ranch opens the door to new possibilities, new cultural experiments, and art and innovation projects on a scale never before envisioned. We also know that community participation will be essential. Fly Ranch will be a collaborative endeavor requiring a vast array of skills, ideas, and contributions.

Securing a year-round location for decades to come at Fly Ranch is the next step in the grand experiment that is Burning Man.

Check out the video below and read on for more information, including how you can get involved.

FAQ

1. What is Fly Ranch?

Fly Ranch is a roughly 3,800-acre parcel of land located 21 miles north of Gerlach, Nevada. The property has 640 acres of wetlands, dozens of natural spring-water pools ranging in temperature from hot to cold, sagebrush-grasslands, and a small area of playa that opens onto the Hualapai Flat. The land’s most prominent feature is the stunning Fly Geyser, a unique and iconic geothermal geyser that constantly releases water reaching five feet in the air, depositing minerals and multi-colored algae on the terraces surrounding it. The Fly Ranch property is truly an oasis in the desert.

The geyser itself is not entirely naturally occurring. It’s the result of some drilling done in 1964 in search of sources of geothermal energy. The well was likely not capped properly, which created the geyser. And why is it called “Fly” Ranch? Is there a bug problem? No. It’s believed the name in reference to flight. Accordingly to local Gerlachian lore, in the 1930s there was a biplane training facility on the property.

fly-geyser

2. Why did Burning Man Project purchase Fly Ranch?

Burning Man’s connection to Fly Ranch goes back nearly 20 years, and the organization has long imagined purchasing it. If you were at the event in 1997 you may remember soaking in the waters of Fly Geyser, since Black Rock City was built on the Fly Ranch property bordering Hualapai Flat that year.

When Burning Man Project established itself as a nonprofit in 2012, the organization set out to create a rural center for Burning Man culture as part of the original six Program Areas. The intention was for Burning Man Project to create “rural centers and spaces that incubate and showcase collaborative and interactive arts, culture, and community participation.” This purchase is a huge step toward making that dream a reality. Fly Ranch will be one of the ways Burning Man engages with the world alongside Black Rock City, Burning Man Arts, the Regional Network, and Burners Without Borders.

In the future, this land will offer new ways for people to participate in Burning Man culture. Activities at Fly will fuel the spirit and expand the possibilities of Black Rock City. This is all part of the evolution of Burning Man from an ephemeral experiment into a global cultural movement having an impact on social, economic and artistic norms and structures. Burning Man’s culture is becoming more recognized and influential around the world, but Black Rock City has been at capacity since 2011. We simply can’t fit all the clowns in the clown car.

fly-sunrise

3. What will Burning Man do with Fly Ranch?

Fly Ranch is a new initiative based on some compelling questions we’ve been asking for a long time. Namely, if we had a permanent place to build and play:

  • What happens when the Burning Man community is invited to co-create at a year-round site beyond Black Rock City?
  • Should Burning Man create a laboratory to experiment with shelter, energy, environmentalism, new models of living, working and governance, and other innovations that could drive social change?
  • What if we had access to a year-round location to showcase large-scale outdoor art sculptures?

We believe these questions are worthy of meaningful exploration, and this purchase is an investment in that belief. We hope Fly Ranch and the activities, events, and dreams that can be realized there will increase and accelerate Burning Man’s capacity to create lasting positive change in the world.

Like Black Rock City, Fly Ranch will be a collaboration. Burning Man Project has secured the land and, in time, will create a context for community participation and immersive experiences. It is our hope that participants will join us in contributing to the ‘content’ in the form of ideas, skills, dreams, and creations.

fly-country

4.  Is Black Rock City moving to Fly Ranch?

No. Black Rock City will not relocate to Fly Ranch, or to the adjacent Hualapai playa. The property is not suitable for the size and scope of Black Rock City as we now know it. The potential of the Fly Ranch Project is strongest during the other 51 weeks of the year, when the inspiration of Burning Man is searching for a foothold in what was once called the “default world”.

5. Where did the money come from?

Burning Man Project purchased Fly Ranch for the price of $6.5 million. The funding came from Burners who have been deeply affected by the spirit and principles of Burning Man, and felt called to give back to the community by enabling us to explore the potential of having a year-round home. The money did not come from ticket revenue, vehicle passes, coffee sales, general donations to the nonprofit Burning Man Project, or any previously existing source of Burning Man income.

All of the donors have contributed in the true spirit of gifting; they did not request and they will not receive any special access or ongoing control over Fly Ranch, Black Rock City, or Burning Man Project. In celebration of our gifting principle, there is no quid pro quo, and their gift is to the entire community.

These gifts were only possible because of our transition into a nonprofit. This new structure allowed us to make this endeavor possible, and enables us to expand the possibilities for our community and for Burning Man culture.

More information about the donors behind this project will be available in the coming days and weeks.

fly-water

6. Can I go there?

Eventually, but not yet!

Purchasing the property is just the first step in a very long process.

Immediate access to the property is not possible (lots of scoping and planning must be completed first), but our intention is for it to be accessible in the future in an ongoing and sustainable way. The Black Rock Desert, home to Black Rock City, provides ample space but a shortage of time. Fly Ranch is a much smaller space, but with potential year-round access, it offers the gift of time. Eventually we’ll be able to create more opportunities spread out throughout the year.

Note: Do not try to visit Fly Ranch during Burning Man 2016. Seriously. Access will not be permitted. In the interest of personal safety, environmental protection, and liability, please stay in Black Rock City. We’re just not there yet, folks.

7. How does this purchase serve the mission of the Burning Man Project?

The mission of the Burning Man Project is to amplify and extend the culture born from the Burning Man event into the larger world, and Fly Ranch is an opportunity to do just that.

When Burning Man Project received its 501c3 status, it did so based on six program areas, one of which describes establishing rural and urban centers. The cultural program intends to “locate, evaluate, acquire, manage, operate, and maintain all Project facilities, sites, networks and real estate, which will be developed and operated using innovative technologies and renewable energy.” Fly Ranch will help realize that intention, and it has the potential to become a platform for many if not all of Burning Man Project’s existing programs and activities (learn more in our Annual Report).

New communities form at Burning Man events across the globe every year. People coalesce around projects, learn new skills, build relationships, and then do amazing things in the world. Fly Ranch is an opportunity for these communities to experiment on a bigger, more long-term canvas, and for whole new communities to form year-round through arts and civic engagement. We believe this will change the world because we know it already has.

fly-swimming

8. Why this land in particular?

Ever since the Burning Man event was held at Fly Ranch in 1997, this special place has taken up residence in our hearts and in the imagination of the Burning Man community.

Although the organization has offices in San Francisco and there are robust Burner communities and events around the globe, the spirit of Burning Man has a profound connection to the isolated beauty and expansive possibilities of Northern Nevada and the Black Rock Desert. We have a long history with the landscape and are members of the local community. We have actually been local landowners for many years. In 2001 Burning Man purchased Black Rock Station, 200 acres directly adjacent to Fly Ranch, which, in addition to parcels in the town of Gerlach, we use to house event-related facilities and storage, and to meet other key infrastructure needs for Black Rock City.

We also believe in the power of removing oneself from the urban, built environment and crossing the threshold into wild, open landscape. Remoteness is a key attribute to Black Rock City and, we believe, to the additional events and engagements we’d like to see at Fly Ranch.

9. How will this purchase affect the local towns of Gerlach and Empire?

The intention is to have a positive impact on local communities, culturally as well as economically.

While Black Rock City has an enormous economic impact on Northern Nevada, it all happens in a very short timeframe. This also comes with inconvenience to local towns in the form of highway congestion. A much smaller but steady flow of people traveling to and from Fly Ranch may actually be of more economic benefit year-round at little if any inconvenience.

Burning Man Project is used to being a neighbor and a participating member of the local community and looks forward to collaborating with Empire, Gerlach, the Paiute Tribe and others to ensure a lasting, mutually beneficial relationship.

10. How can I get involved?

In the coming months and years (because honestly, projects of this magnitude take time), there will be many opportunities to participate in visioning the future of Fly Ranch. We will need your time, energy, expertise, and ideas. Of course this project will also need financial support to realize and explore new ideas, if you feel inspired to contribute to Fly Ranch, you can follow this link.

In the coming weeks there will be more information and ways for you to join the conversation. While this is really exciting and we can’t wait to get started, right now we’re in the thick of preparing for Black Rock City 2016, and won’t really be able to dive in until after the event. If you want raise your hand (yay, do-ocracy!) to be involved in visioning the the future of Fly Ranch, or want to offer support now, head over to flyranch.burningman.org.

11. So you’re not moving to Utah, then?

Nope, guess not.

About the author: Burning Man Project

Burning Man Project

The official voice of the Burning Man organization, managed by Burning Man Project's Communications Team.

261 Comments on “We Bought Fly Ranch

  • JV says:

    I gotta say, this stinks, and not just from the geyser sulfur. This was bought with our ticket dollars which in turn is generated from our art projects and it’s going to benefit what exactly? Oh this:

    “As a year-round site, Fly Ranch has the potential to expand Burning Man Project’s activities and existing programs, as well as amplify Burning Man’s cultural impact into the wider world beyond Black Rock City.”

    HA! How many of us are going to spend one minute there? What are those “activities and programs” and when will we find out? Oh right!:

    “The answers will unfold slowly, over a period of time.”

    The BMORG is look more and more like an out of touch elitist cult out to prolong a certain lifestyle for an inner circle of folks.

    Not a happy burner, here.

    Report comment

    • eggchairsteve says:

      yawn…

      Report comment

    • Jenn says:

      The article specifically says it was not funded by ticket revenue…

      Report comment

    • Pantsless Santa says:

      Did you read the part about how this was purchased with money earmarked by donors, and not by ticket revenue or operating income?

      Report comment

    • Natasha says:

      Did you miss the paragraph that clearly said that this purchase wasn’t made by ticket revenue, it was made posible by speciffic donations for this cause.

      Report comment

    • sunny says:

      take a lap, reread the article.

      Report comment

    • Shrek says:

      Take the time to read the FAQ. It was not bought with ticket revenue; it was funded via direct charitable donations. Names apparently TBA; I suspect we will see Elin Musk on there, and likely their embrace of people like Grover Norquist and existing Silicon Valley links both likely bore some connections to a collection of people to whom dollars are playthings to throw at any wild idea that strikes their fancy.

      Report comment

      • SarahS says:

        I’m anything BUT rich, but I’m thrilled that wealthy donors are willing to back this project. One of the biggest issues facing Black Rock City is the stress it puts on the local community. This will enable the residents of the nearby towns to grow their businesses and stay in those small towns year round, which in turn helps burners… which in turn helps the towns… and the circle continues. This is fantastic news. I’m looking forward to visiting our second )'(ome in the off season in the years to come. :)

        Report comment

    • Ladies&Gentleman says:

      everything you just said is wrong.

      Report comment

    • DrTune says:

      It says an immense amount about JV that s/he immediately flies off the handle and leaps to the most negative conclusion, ranting about how pissed he is, without even reading the whole article. There’s a lot of this mindless negativity around nowadays; “Bitter Burners” – this is exactly what BM isn’t about; it’s about joy and creativity and fun and all that stuff. It’s a shame there’s a substantial number of people who still hang around the festival physically or online, and pour their personal scorn/bitterness/disillusionment into it. Fuck those people; how is anything positive ever going to get done, how are things going to grow and unfold and continue to lead us to new delights unless there is progress and new ideas? The Bitter Burner is now a long-worn cliche. I say you should work on your personal issues, rediscover your enthusiasm or – if you’re truly Burned Out, just go away and find something else to do that does make you happy, and leave the rest of to get on with creating the event we love without being dragged down by your scorn and negativity.

      Report comment

      • eggchairsteve says:

        WORD

        Report comment

      • Larry Edelstein says:

        JV got a little pissed off and corrected themselves a few minutes later. After that, you fail to read the correction, and launch into a tirade about how JV should introspect, and how their post represents all sorts of whatnot. INTROSPECT, YOURSELF.

        Report comment

      • nik says:

        WORD (#2)

        The contrast has always amazed me. On the playa, you meet the best people in the world – there is the odd Bitter Burner (BB) but you kinda ignore them and move on, and have fun.

        But off playa, the BB dominates all burning man related forums somehow.

        Report comment

      • Ninsidhe says:

        Your comment regarding bitterness really struck a chord with me- it’s the reason why I decided not to get involved with the Burning Seed event here in Australia. I made the mistake of joining an online ‘unofficial’ fb community linked to Seed and was so disillusioned by the online interactions and perspectives expressed there (particularly misogyny, promotion and tolerance of abuse and an intolerance for divergent/atypical individuals) that I decided I didn’t want to expose my family to that level of grief and bias. I went online to do my due diligence as part of taking full responsibility for my very divergent and atypical family.

        What I’ve read about with the original Burning Man community and other overseas events is vastly different and I’m hoping to eventually experience these- I am a social innovator and experimentalist, amongst other things, and the idea of being in a community of *genuine* innovation is my idea of the Ultimate Squee. :D And who doesn’t want to experience the Ultimate Squee?

        Report comment

      • Dr Tune, I totally get your sentiment but try and be loving and positive in your approach to negativity. Meeting negativity with negativity and attack is not effective and somewhat of an irony overload. x

        Report comment

      • G Snap says:

        Hell yeah. Thank you for saying what I’ve been feeling but struggled to express.

        Report comment

      • jojo says:

        Sounding a bit bitter and negative there

        Report comment

      • Linda Bray says:

        A bad Apple in every basket! Not a problem! Just let it go!

        Report comment

      • Fabulous says:

        Yes! I too, have had it with pointless, and often un-grounded, negativity. Bring back the joy!

        Report comment

    • Paul Willsea says:

      Did not thou read of how the land was and was not paid for?

      Report comment

      • DrTune says:

        …of course he didn’t, why let facts get in the way of a good spewing of bitterness!
        I look forward to seeing what happens with Fly Ranch; and I don’t immediately assume the worst – I’m interested in what new things will come out of it. God damn I’m sick of people bitching about BM; it’s a mixture of people who (of course) have never even been, plus people who got all bitter and twisted about it for some reason and insist on hanging around to tell us how everything is Corrupt and Elitist and (of course) Not As Good As It Used To Be. Go boil your head JV.

        Report comment

      • JV says:

        Boy, sorry to ruin some people’s morning, I did immediately reply with a “my bad” once the first person replied to my original comment. For what it’s worth, I’m not a person who thinks it was “better last year.” I think the event itself is still incredibly awesome and inspiring. I’m not a fan of the new direction the BMORG is taking with attempting to expand “burner culture,” whatever that is. But as long as they do it with private funds, it’s none of my business. However, the Fly Ranch purchase is the exception to the rule of using funds from ticket sales to back this or that venture not directly related to the event itself, which is why I assumed (wrongly this time) the worst.

        Report comment

      • roissy says:

        @JV I’m sorry you ARE wrong once more, because BM WAS ALWAYS BETTER LAST YEAR…

        Report comment

      • Corbeau says:

        Thou spake most negatively indeed and verily ye cannot make sport of the God and master of thine faith…lest ye be cast upon a rock from a great height and thou shouldst see the might of BORG!

        Report comment

      • fri-'net-ik says:

        No no no, it was better NEXT year.

        Report comment

    • Some guy says:

      Im just absolutely miffed.. Before you even finished the article you drew multiple conclusions and without even finishing the article.. Do you expect people to take your opinion seriously? Why even share it if you didn’t take time to consider implication.. On the source material right in front of you? You come off as someone who likes to hear them self talk. Please

      Report comment

    • Ken says:

      I could’ve sworn that it explicitly stated in the article that the property was NOT purchased using ticket sales, etc., but rather through donations made to the non-profit specifically for this kind of thing, with no quid pro quo. Did you miss that, or just not believe it?

      Report comment

    • Big JJ says:

      It would be hard to imagine a more self-centered self-righteous group of toolbags than the fools here asking “HOW WILL THIS BENEFIT ME, WHAT ABOUT MEEEEEE! ME ME ME ME ME ME!”

      Oh don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll be able to trash a new pristine place with your scummy waste soon enough.

      With any luck they’ll turn it into a nature refuge where people can camp with a low footprint and enjoy the land without destroying it.

      In the worst scenario, they’ll bulldoze and pave over the entire thing to build Mini Las Vegas with permanent installations of various garbage so that tech bros who discovered LSD at the early retirement age of 36 can come stare at a globe for the bargain price of $900 per night.

      Or maybe, a BM cult! Now that would be something, wouldn’t it?

      What will happen? Time will tell.

      Report comment

    • LoveTrain says:

      Go see how much of the ticket cost goes to permitting fees and then get back to me with your rage about purchasing property. This is not the only property the mothership owns or leases.

      Report comment

    • Marci says:

      Your comment should simply be DELETED because it is DELUSIONAL

      Report comment

    • Double-A says:

      JV– stay home. I mean, really.

      Stay.
      Home.

      And put some salve on that swollen puffy bunghole of yours.
      Quit crying.
      Go build your OWN city and lets see how much you gripe, bitch and moan, then… fucking crybaby.

      Report comment

      • JV says:

        Nope, I’ll be on the playa this year. Hope to see you there, maybe we can, like, have a dialogue where differing points of view are shared without vitriol. A boy can dream, can’t he….

        Report comment

    • Dustin Moye says:

      JV. Please read the whole article and FAQ. Fly Ranch was paid for by private donations, not ticket sales.

      Report comment

    • Debbi says:

      Oh get over yourself. It’s a beautiful piece of Gods land and these folks will do something awesome with it. Who cares if you are a happy camper anyway, go play elsewhere.

      Report comment

    • Tutu says:

      According to the site for the ranch, they didn’t buy it with ticket funds. The money came from separate donations. The financials are published online, you could always dive in a take a look at the form 990.

      “The money did not come from ticket revenue, vehicle passes, coffee sales, general donations to the nonprofit Burning Man Project, or any previously existing source of Burning Man income.”

      Report comment

    • micahphone says:

      fuckin JV

      Report comment

    • Helios says:

      Y ou might consider simply deleting the comment. Google David Niven “I didn’t say it.” All the best.

      Report comment

    • Corbeau says:

      In the interest of expediting the shaming of JV….
      here’s a form for responding to him:
      Hey….you __________! It says that it was paid for by ___________! Anyway….you are a total__________ and should _________!
      Even if you DID apologize….you’re still a _________ and should _____________ you ___________!

      PS __________________!

      Report comment

    • BusyDay says:

      Poor guy. As a newbie here I was wondering what ‘BM culture’ is, or what people are saying. Hopefully it’s not just all the human bashing this person is getting for making an off the cuff post. He apologized, at least twice. From the outside, the project does have an elitist feel to it. Is this the populace of that culture? Peace out.

      Report comment

    • Drd says:

      Maybe you were not happy before,.. You may want to delete this comment which serves to show how NOT reading the full article can make a difference

      Report comment

    • Patrick O'Loughlin says:

      My life is going to waste as things are going now. Despite my BA Fine Art from UC Santa Barbara (College of Creative Studies)
      , my 30 years experience as a carpenter, my high IQ,150, which also indicates a lot of self education in many diverse topics, I’ve been unable to find a satisfying place in life. I can enumerate my faults as well, and will, happily, should you indicate an interest, that have led to this dead end in my life of trying to live in our general society. If you feel there could be some place for me here, let me know. I have very little money, I’m 57, I work my ass off, and I know how to come up with solutions. I have never been to burning man, though I have been to 3 rainbow national gatherings. I currently live in Henderson, Nv. Give me a notion and I will bail this shit right away. Yours sincerely, Patrick

      Report comment

    • Msbobcat says:

      read…then understand

      Report comment

    • Mark Marvinik Architect says:

      I’m a Burner from 1987 ,1988. Bigger -is- better was not on anyone’s mind back on Bakers beach. I saw it then as just the opposite, local activism
      when the ideas of regionalism and lotech were just getting started. I am ashamed now when I see statements claiming of Burning Man’s environmental consciousness. Nothing could be further from the truth. Innumerable
      diesel and gas generators, chemical toilets, gas powered vehicles and open burning is big time pollution and not legal within current environmental law. The current trend for the elite to flaunt their ability to be above the law is also shameful. BM is a big corporation now ,it should be subject to the laws we hold other corporations to.

      Transforming the event to a permanent facility where air and water pollution can be managed and electricity can be generated sustainably would be the way to to that. BM , you are adult now stop acting like kids.

      Report comment

    • Jason Crispi says:

      I don’t think you understand the culture at all, and are misinformed about the where the money came from. If you don’t want to participate anymore, then don’t.

      As for me, I’m very excited that our life, our love, our beliefs can be a a daily reality!

      Report comment

      • Jason Sig says:

        The “culture” ?? Hahah that is funny….look we go to Burning Man to party and watch the wacky people. Its an excuse to hang off the grid for a few days. Then back to reality. Stop living in a fantasy world.

        Report comment

    • Jason Sig says:

      Wow….this is a wacked out scam….seems like fairy land pipe dreams to do what?? Everything spoken of seems so wierd. Environmental projects to showcase….Who the hell cares? Is this another save the environment from global warming scheme?? Turn it into a bathing ground with the spiritual mineral waters or some other party place.

      Report comment

    • Nicole says:

      Someone didn’t do their reading. Fly ranch was bought with money not related to ticket sales, coffee sales, or ticket passes. Read the whole article before complaining.

      Report comment

    • Flygirl says:

      Wow… let me count the assholes on here… and it’s not JV. I’m sorry I did not comment in an artful BURNING way. ASSHOLES!

      Report comment

  • eggchairsteve says:

    I love this

    Report comment

  • E says:

    They specifically said “The money did not come from ticket revenue, vehicle passes, coffee sales, general donations to the nonprofit Burning Man Project, or any previously existing source of Burning Man income.”

    Report comment

    • Roy333 says:

      I wish everyone who told JV to “Read the whole article” would have Read the other comments, as every other comment says, “Read the article”.
      This could have ended with one or two comments, but instead we get a hundred comments saying, “Read the article”

      Any comments?

      Report comment

      • Barbara Lee says:

        I wholeheartedly agree with you. The comments have become about jv’s comments and not the article itself. I am not a “Burner” myself, but do appreciate what they have done for the surrounding communities. Hopefully this project will prove itself to be beneficial to all.

        Good luck to BMORG with this project.

        Report comment

      • Washoe Wild says:

        Being a lifelong and native Nevadan , I celebrate the purchase of this unique place by BMORG. Burning Man is helping keep this unique Northern Nevada community from becoming a ghost town. We are amazingly lucky to have them as neighbors. BM has done amazing things for art and culture in Reno, too. I am really looking forward to seeing how they use and preserve this weird and cool place. Remote places in Nv. run the very real risk of being both shot up and trashed. Not gonna happen to Fly Ranch now that BM owns it. They have proved time and time again to be a great neighbor in Gerlach and the surrounding Northern Nevada communities.

        Report comment

  • Tibet Sprague says:

    Whoa, definitely shed a tear watching that video. Congratulations to everyone involved, this is a truly exciting step in the evolution of what Burning Man can bring to the world!

    Report comment

  • cuddlestud says:

    This has so much potential.

    Report comment

  • mitch deen says:

    Wow. This literally changes everything. I’ve always felt almost at home on the playa, but felt like Fly Ranch was my true home…can’t wait to move in with all 70 of my closest friends forever.

    What’s rent looking like?

    Report comment

    • Nik says:

      I assume it will be a couple hundred a month considering the lack of access to clean water, electricity, and transportation. But once all the silicon valley slophogs find out about it we’re screwed.

      I’m curious what cell providers are getting in on this deal. I’m with Sprint . Any mobile providers that would give a burner discount? MetroPCS maybe?

      Report comment

      • Gergenstein says:

        Well, we should take the standard BM ticket price as our starting point, ~$400/week gives us $1,600/month. For that price I’d expect like-new construction, relatively close amenities, and HOA dues. We all know how Slophogs drive up prices though, so I’m hoping to snag two plots early, save one for myself, and AirBnB the second.

        Report comment

      • Jason Sig says:

        ATT has first dibs…..they gonna provide us with satellite hookups too so we dont miss any of the NFL games.

        Report comment

    • Jimmy Bohemia says:

      This just topped the list for my early retirement home!

      Report comment

    • Lillexielou says:

      Right? Me too. I hope that I will get an opportunity to take in all that beauty and visit the geyser and the hot springs, since that area is closed off during Burning Man.

      Report comment

      • Fievel says:

        Literally nothing in this release even indicates the possibility of the land being open to use by the public. They’re not buying this for you, they’re buying it to keep convincing large donors to support their globe trotting and global leadership nonsense.

        Report comment

      • JV says:

        That is my fear as well.

        Report comment

  • Tarun says:

    Wow! What a beautiful space. The future is bright and I’m ready to fly! I would love to volunteer services around media or any IT / Wifi infrastructure and planning if that is required. Congratulations to the BM Community!

    Report comment

  • Rod Coleman says:

    Let me be the first to say…

    WOW!

    Report comment

  • Spork says:

    Fuck yeah. I look forward to seeing a 100% sustainable off-the-grid town out here. A proof of concept for any technology that people claim “wouldn’t work”. Real freedom. This is the American dream.

    Report comment

  • jeni bruckler says:

    cool.. I had a dream one night of a place where burners lived on their own space, all living together in special homes uniquely and individually designed for sustainability, ie:, solar powered, wind powered, greenhouses, water conservation, collection, shared foods amongst each other, doing art, self expressions, diversity, workshops to teach self preservation, and all practicing the Ten Principles.

    Report comment

  • LightMan says:

    My first Burning Man was 1997. Fly ranch was amazing, and and awesome part of my Burning Man experience. While I can see you can’t have 70,000 people go there during Burning Man I can’t wait to see what you all do with the place.

    Report comment

  • Howard says:

    Check out the Fly Geyser in virtual reality. Also works w/Googlel Cardboard.

    http://www.allaroundnevada.com/fly-geyser/

    Report comment

  • Dusty says:

    95% chance this just becomes a retreat center for the Board’s billionaire friends.

    5% chance that any non-connected, non-1% burner will ever see this place.

    Report comment

    • Ladies&Gentleman says:

      Your thoughts represent you well

      Report comment

    • DrTune says:

      Dusty why are you even here? It’s clearly time for you to go do something else other than BM if you that’s your first reaction to such news. You have no reason to say that, no actual knowledge of what is going to happen with Fly Ranch, you just want to piss on something that’s new – something that has all sorts of potential to make BM better both at the event and year-round. Really, if you’re that bitter about the whole thing go find something new to do, you’re not doing yourself or us any favors by hanging around here.

      Report comment

      • JV says:

        Dusty’s critique is a valid one. And I’m not sure living in an echo chamber where there are no dissenting voices aligns with whatever Burning Man represents.

        Report comment

  • Duncan says:

    Here is an aerial photo of the Fly Geyser that I shot during the 2015 burn. Interesting place.

    https://flic.kr/p/xWayMC

    Report comment

  • PurpleKoosh says:

    This is huge, and not simply in terms of acreage. Congratulations to everyone who got this really big ball rolling; I can’t wait to see what happens next.

    Report comment

  • Came to this comment section looking for people flipping their shit about “YOUR ticket dollars!!!” being spent on property for teh evil B0RG. Was not disappointed.

    Report comment

  • Dave Julian says:

    I think this news is the seed for a tree with many branches of creative projects, innovations and progressive ideas. Of course, that will depend on what BMORG plans for this property and how well they integrate or include the public BM community in their plans.

    I’d like to learn more.

    Report comment

  • Gear Cutter says:

    I believe that the overall concept of Burning Man goes far beyond the week at BRC.. As with BR Solar and other projects, the concept is to make the world a better place and secure some of it for the future.. A noble thing done by BMORG..

    Report comment

  • Debra Webber says:

    As a native Nevadan who has been banned from Fly Ranch because of its private ownership, I look forward to having the opportunity to enjoy this fabulous site as the project evolves. Thank you.

    Report comment

  • Jimmy Bohemia says:

    Just want to go on record as saying I think this is fantastic news. The potential here is amazing!

    Report comment

  • Bru says:

    I’m super intrigued and excited! This sounds like it has the possibility to become a totally self sustainable town like the one they’re building in the suburbs of Amsterdam!! I would love to be part of it all

    Report comment

  • Shenanigans says:

    Beautiful and exciting. So rife with potential that we almost vibrate with it as soon as we know it exists.
    Thank you for moving my chosen world ahead in such an inspiring way.

    Can we do the GLC there? I’m Canadian, I can camp in Nevada in April. Especially with a hot spring to bask in.

    Report comment

  • Lander Meek says:

    The potential for this is HUGE!

    Although, I do share some of the concerns about it becoming an exclusive retreat for the billionaire class. Because, hey,, money talks and bullshit walks.

    I will take a hide and watch approach.

    If it looks like something we all can take part in and enjoy,, I might lend some support to make it happen.

    Report comment

  • Raydiant says:

    Awesome!

    I believe this will be a great first step towards creating a year-round center for collaboration and sharing the unique skills and knowledge that Burners possess.

    The fact that the Geyser itself as a focal point is beautiful is a bonus, and the other water features on the property make it much more hospitable than the Playa itself.

    Report comment

  • Clyde bradley says:

    So,when do we get to soak?

    Report comment

  • Beth Gordon says:

    Well as I’m an older person…………….I was only ninewhen woodstock happened……but as always you have to go bigger and better because your in america. Well will they have art for Native Americans , Veterans from all wars??????????????? I now fall under being disabled. Will they have facilities for disabled people??? I’m sure this will turn into Corp America also. Have you reported all the killings, rapes, etc how will that be managed??? Or is Trump funding this?????????????? I really feel the original Burning Man started out as intended but money always talks.

    Report comment

  • Jeffz says:

    This looks wonderful. One of my goals as an artist is to eventually have enough that I can afford to live in a rural location in the middle of nowhere and create community around me. Will keep a close eye on how this pans out and opportunities to be involved!

    Report comment

  • Clyde bradley says:

    There is an awful lot of hot water there !

    Report comment

  • Daisy Mae says:

    Awesome!! Be the change you want so see.

    Report comment

  • Sam says:

    Lets just hope the wildlife and the beauty of the land is preserved, i wouldnt want 1000s of humans showing up and scaring them away.

    Report comment

  • Congratulations. This will be the beginning of a whole new phase for burning man. So glad you were able to do it and what a perfect location. I can’t wait to be a part of it in the coming years

    Report comment

  • Bohobo says:

    So, some generous souls, on fire with the love all things Burning Man, donated $6 mil with absolutely no strings attached, and they will receive absolutely no concessions or VIP treatment for their generosity? Time will tell, and we old burners will be watching every step of the way.

    Report comment

    • DrTune says:

      Well.. yeah. Call me naive but my guess is that some people precisely did donate $6m with no strings attached. You know the “yellow” bikes? An anonymous and – very well conceived – gift to everyone.
      Making a lot of money (and giving some of it away) doesn’t automatically make you an asshole who wants a pound of flesh in return, skip the will-call line etc. Wealthy people have plenty of privilege available to them outside BM, I don’t think all of them want red carpet treatment on playa. Mark Zuckerberg, for example, camped (in a tent) with Shady Waffle a couple of years ago. Perhaps he wanted the authentic experience.
      I don’t dig the Turnkey Camp / Giant RV thing, but actually I don’t dig RVs at all – they could certainly be seen as a sign of privilege whether they’re $500k or $50k vehicles – and there are thousands and thousands of them on the playa. I just don’t have the energy or motivation to go round hatin’ on everyone.

      Report comment

      • Al X says:

        Just a small note – and sorry to nitpick – many RVs are actually quite affordable. Last year our friends purchased one for <$5k, fixed it up, and worked out a barter to store it for the winter. We drove across the country with them. Yes, it's difficult for the impoverished, but so is attending BM in any fashion. RV ownership can be done cheaply with a little bit of elbow grease (in the spirit of self-reliance).

        Report comment

  • DrTune says:

    The great irony about the people saying “it’s all an Elitist scam for the 1%” and such crap – is that this purchase was obviously funded by some people with a lot of dough to spare. They could have just bought the ranch themselves and held the “Billionaire-Only” Parties that you seem so ready to imagine.
    Instead, the land has essentially been gifted to BM, who are right here telling you about it – and wording it very carefully to try to preempt your inevitable slings and arrows. But no, in your mind obviously it’s a conspiracy designed to exclude you. …errr.. right…

    Report comment

    • H3lix says:

      1000% this.

      Report comment

    • JV says:

      Not really, they need the social/cultural cache that comes with Burning Man to make it worth their while. Capital seeks art and art seeks capital, it’s a story as old as, well, The Medici. Oh hey! Now there’s a coincidence.

      Report comment

      • YoHarryO says:

        “they need the social/cultural cache that comes with Burning Man to make it worth their while”

        How can you know their needs so well?

        Something to consider:
        • Would it be better to refuse a gift like this to the BM Community?
        • Should BM Leadership allow donations from a certain segment of the community, but not other segments?

        “Sorry we won’t allow you to give that much”

        Refusing generosity, from anyone, takes away an opportunity from them to participate in the Gifting Principle of Burning Man.
        • Radical inclusion means everyone, even the wealthy.
        • Radical Self Expression arises from the unique gifts of the individual. If a person is a billionaire, their wealth is a unique offering. Not unlike a gifted musician offering music each year.

        I encourage you, friend, to follow the story of Fly Ranch, and see if one day you can contribute to it’s progress.

        Report comment

      • JV says:

        “How can you know their needs so well?”

        I don’t, nor do you, but based on some life experience, I’m making an assessment.

        “Would it be better to refuse a gift like this to the BM Community?”

        This did not come out of the blue. The BMORG has been angling to purchase Fly Ranch for over a decade and have made that desire quite public. It’s awesome they are now connected with people of financial means who can help them achieve their goals. But to think it was a pure gift with no strings attached is to be naive, in my opinion. Do you really believe the backers of this project will get no preferential treatment? Can you or I have the same access, both to Fly Ranch and to members of the BMORG, with our (I’m assuming on your part) modest means? Of course not. And hey, that’s how the world works, I’m fine with it but you know, Burning Man was supposed to be different? It wasn’t supposed to matter how much money you have. Only now it does, as the BMORG attempt to “spread burner culture.” Gotta have money to do that, and so they begin to court the philanthropic class, and certain people start to get invited to Burning Man, and Larry goes on speaking tours, etc etc. Again, they can do what they want, but we as burners are not required to sign on to everything they do.

        “Should BM Leadership allow donations from a certain segment of the community, but not other segments?”

        Personally I don’t think they should take donations from anyone aside from ticket sales and sweat. Seriously. From that pool they have enough to run the event and pay their staff. What more, exactly, do they need and why? Courting donations leads to all kinds of behavior, loss of perspective being the primary one.

        “Refusing generosity, from anyone, takes away an opportunity from them to participate in the Gifting Principle of Burning Man.
        • Radical inclusion means everyone, even the wealthy.
        • Radical Self Expression arises from the unique gifts of the individual. If a person is a billionaire, their wealth is a unique offering. Not unlike a gifted musician offering music each year.”

        Sorry, but I don’t equate monetary gifts with gifts of time/art/labor. Handing over money requires nothing of the person, it’s just another financial transaction, the kind that Burning Man is meant to put into perspective. It’s actually offensive to me that you equated it with a musician gifting music. What if a rich musician decided to give the BMORG a million dollars instead of playing some music on the playa? Same diff? Not to me, not even close. People are, of course, free to spend as much money as they want on their burn, but money can’t buy engagement, and quite often it discourages it.

        “I encourage you, friend, to follow the story of Fly Ranch, and see if one day you can contribute to it’s progress.”

        I will be.

        Report comment

    • Ja says:

      It’s called a tax write off when you donate to a 501-c3

      Report comment

  • Joe says:

    Congratulations on acquiring a beautiful piece of property, with plans to see it occupied year round.

    I can only wonder what we will find in 20 years – one generation – and if the Playa will be a spaceport the other 51 weeks a year.

    There is a city in India – Auroville – that comes to mind when trying to predict the future of Fly Ranch. If you have never heard of it – check it out.

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Auroville

    Hoping for greatness-

    Report comment

  • John says:

    Good. Fuck Utah anyways !!! =)

    Okay, seriously cool shit happening with BMORG! Congrats on a huge chuck of land. I remember 1997 and it was a great year and great space used that year.

    Cant wait to see what the future has in store for us local citizens.

    Stoked.

    Report comment

  • mark achbar says:

    What an exceptionally beautiful place with infinite potential. A deep thank you to each of the extremely generous individuals who made this purchase possible.

    Report comment

  • Sledge says:

    Will you serve ice cream?

    Report comment

  • Aaron Yohey says:

    Having traversed this great piece of property in the days when you could camp in the cottonwoods west from the geyser and drink from the spring that flowed through camp and soak in the hot pool by the geyser in the evening, I have to say “GREAT” maybe that will happen again instead of the no trespassing signs. Nevada is a wonderful state and BM has helped promote the beauty thru its community, expression and art. Hopefully this will not become a playground for the 1% and the rich and famous. Oh, the best Burn was the year it was held on the Fly Ranch property! Good luck to BM and the Black Rock.

    Report comment

  • DaydreamDollMother says:

    Just my little two cents worth but… in making your considerations for what to do with the property, and in the name of sustainability and large projects… consider a largescale semi-underground garden. Not only is it possible, it leaves more of the surface intact, you can easily reflect light with clever mirror and skylight arrangement, and TBH, people doing massive projects will need to eat, so it’s a project within a project really, but one that is both practical and beautiful. (I would happily help design and implement such a thing, though I do not have the funds to do so on such a large scale. Do drop me an email if someone in charge decides that it’s a good idea, at the very least I can point you at some functional real world inspiration and info on planting things and growing in semi-climate controlled areas)

    Report comment

  • ( ( ( ( ( heart ) ) ) ) )

    ( ( ( ( ( home ) ) ) ) )

    ( ( ( ( ( world ) ) ) ) )

    So. Fucking. With. You.

    Report comment

  • squishelle says:

    Congratulations all, and Happy Flyday!

    So in awe of all of the outstanding humans who’ve taken this project on for a very long time prior to this monumental announcement day.

    I’m so GIDDY!

    Report comment

  • Pieter-Paul Groenhuijsen says:

    What a find. This place could (should?) become the blueprint for communal off the grid living. Watermanagement, solar powered food preparation, geothermal energy production, seed storage, fermentation installations, my mind goes in overdrive thinking about all the possibilities and opportunities. Just imagine the first baby being born there..

    Report comment

  • Pappapip says:

    Wow I ve read all the posts and how you guys have berated that guy JV….. He even held his hands up, ok he was wrong and admitted to that, is that how the BM spirit is? Keep on badgering people who have admitted their mistakes Really? Grow up, grow a pair, and move on quickly. If you can not accept JV s apologies then there’s no room for you in any society.

    Report comment

  • Mike Jewell, Sandpoint, ID says:

    It’s SO cool that Burning Man owns this now and not ANY other organization. Makes me feel really good about the world.

    Report comment

  • Don says:

    Dibs on a spot near the Starbucks!

    Report comment

  • Kevin B says:

    I think that there is alot of good that can happen here, couple ideas:

    Giant warehouses to leave huge artists to do thier thing.

    Giant solar setup for power

    Maybe a giant campground for artists to camp durring part of the year.

    Greenhouse village with a bunch of people who are into making healthy food to sell to artists etc..

    Applications for residence based in artists, speakers etc… they are going to have to fund it somehow…

    Is it possible to dig a well there?

    Sounds like alot of awesome could happen…..

    I like to believe that burning man is evolving….

    1999 first burn… this year will be #15

    I love it every time

    Report comment

    • OShawn says:

      Kevin B
      Why do you even want to build on that beautiful piece of property so fast?
      Slow down, and start thinking in terms of 7 generations with this project instead of next week or next year. if you don’t it wont be here for your great grand children’s burns

      Report comment

    • Birdnerd says:

      In other words, develop the hell out of this beautiful pristine property? Make it another Bay Area?

      Report comment

  • Deryk Baumgärtner says:

    I’ve been there several times and this isolated beauty is really a unique place of it’s own! The atmosphere and silence is something you will never forget your whole life. Maybe you’ll love to see my video I did some years ago >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7tWyIGRxYU

    Report comment

  • Some Seeing Eye says:

    Thank you for a well written and detailed announcement!

    With the Ranch adjacent, the BMORG was in the best spot over years to dream about what the Fly Ranch land could become, and what it should not.

    It will be a good challenge to develop a plan which engages new generations of burners.

    Well done.

    Report comment

  • C-Bear says:

    Great news! I look forward to what this has to offer the Burning Man community! I hope to volunteer time or money or both to make this a sustainable community! I have yet to see the organizers fail us Burners even with many obstacles thrown at them by the various government entities and financial issues. Having another place to call HOME might be some of the best news I’ve heard! CONGRATS!!

    Report comment

  • Cooky says:

    My soul is singing happily!
    Let’s Fly!

    Report comment

  • HUNTED_SF says:

    What a beautiful gift. I hope to see it one day. <3

    Report comment

  • Daou says:

    What an amazing opportunity provided by the burning universe. Thank you so much to those giving your time and money to my favorite community. Looking forward to actively participating in the evolution…

    Burner fortune cookie say: “Be the Way”

    Report comment

  • Jes says:

    You know what would be the biggest pieces of art and environmentally conscious worldliness? Letting it go absolutely fucking wild and never setting another human foot on the place. Let’s try that.

    Report comment

  • Dougly says:

    Who will get to swim in the mud?
    1. All of us?
    II. None of us?
    C. Some of us?
    I can’t see a good choice anywhere there.

    Report comment

  • Adam Fishman says:

    I am so happy that the Burning Man Project has raised the funds through anonymous donors who saw a need for a place where the culture can flourish. As a long Time Oregon Native, Oregon Country Fair has done the same and I always thought Burning Man was OCF, 2.0, but now I am grateful that us and our children and their children can use this place for wonder and enrichment without the Federal Government telling us how to live and where.

    I cannot wait to become acquainted with the Fly Ranch and be able to enjoy and fly and Fly Ranch.

    Blessings and thank you

    Report comment

  • DougieP says:

    As a fine art photographer that has been trying to get to the geyser for years I am so happy that it will be taken care of going forward, and perhaps my wish to shoot the geyser will come true!

    Report comment

  • johnnyjet says:

    I’ve been thinking for years of just giving up on the main event and just doing regionals, but this looks a lot better. Start with the AEZ. as a thought for inspiration look at Arcosanti.

    Report comment

  • miz jewelz says:

    Hooray & congrats! One of my favorite places! How about a reunion of the folks from the ’97 work weekend to celebrate? :-)

    Report comment

  • Derwick says:

    Larry and pals bought some property, BFD. Has nothing to do with BM…

    Report comment

    • doctoriknow says:

      Spark is an aptly named film about BM.

      I would wager that any investor in this 6 sq. mile property had attended BM at least once, and there was an internal spark in them that ignited something vital about themselves they knew not, and now, with might be very disposable income for some of the investors, they couldn’t pass up helping to finance this experiment with no known outcome, knowing that perhaps it could turn into something great and pretty good assurance that the sensitive nature of the land will be respected 100%l.

      Burning Man certainly has turned into something amazing, run by people who are working their asses off to keep it going, and who’s to say this project will have staff/workers with any less commitment to making something amazing? What a great opportunity, and this real estate is a palette awaiting what could be another masterpiece. Now, back to the usual comments here “…it should be…” or “….what’s in it for me….” or “oh, great, for the 1%..”

      Report comment

  • Lolly says:

    On a positive note, this means the land won’t be bought by a less environmentally responsible party. Think of the neighbors BRC could have gotten….the noise complaints alone!
    As far as usage planning, I suggest an area for The Elder Burner Retirement Home. We’re gonna need a safe place to roll with our flamethrower-equipped wheelchairs someday.

    Report comment

  • Dr. Bungee says:

    There is a cliche about how “Burning Man changed my life”. For some, it’s finding a trinket shining in the sun, and attaching a significant, if somewhat tenuous meaning to it. For me, it happened very slowly. At some point during my roughly 150 days on the playa, I came to realize that it isn’t all about me, but it’s about all of us. The collaboration I witnessed by various groups, creating absolutely amazing things, effected and excited me to the point where I had to join in. Yeah it can be a lot of work, herding cats, braving the harsh conditions…, but there is immense satisfaction in seeing your groups creative efforts ecstatically enjoyed by others. Anyone who has put in the effort, understands the reward.
    So BM HAS changed my life. To the point that I’ve developed a unique, ultra efficient dwelling, inspired by my years at BRC. I’m sitting in one now as I write this. I’ve built others for enlightened people. As I’m reading about this purchase, I can’t help but think there is something at work that is bigger than any of us. A collective mindset that there really can be a better world. I’m thrilled to be a part of it.
    Come visit us at Yabba Dabba Do Me, somewhere
    around 3:00

    Report comment

  • klaus says:

    Congratulations! I think this is absolutely wonderful. The property looks beyond beautiful and magical. BM has touched so many people in so many positive ways, has brought so many people from so many different places and backgrounds together. Forever grateful and thankful.

    Report comment

  • Rich Staley says:

    What I love about this is that this land was privately owned for many years and was inaccessible by the general public. The geyser was originally a company drilling for water. They found hot water, and abandoned the project leaving the pipes in the ground and allowing the hot water to gush out the pipes. Because of the mineralization of the water, a stalagmite was built. Over time it gets bigger and bigger until it can’t hold it’s own weight, then parts shear off to again rebuild as the build up continues. It really is a natural wonder, constantly changing shape and color. I think this was a wonderful purchase, and I love the BM’s future outlook for this site. Congratulations.

    Report comment

  • Sylvana says:

    It was a dream for me to be there since I go to burning man. The impact of people on that land can destroy it if we don’t care of animals, plants or birds. It will be better to restore a land destroy than destroy a existant paradise. All the posts talk about money, but I think environnemental is the only issue.

    Report comment

  • Mikael says:

    Sergey Brin bought it. He and his friends have been leasing the geyser for years so they can take they’re trophies they recruit each year off the playa and “$ oak”. They are planning greenhouses, communes, geo thermal heating and solar, and plan to have burn events bi-monthly if not weekly. There is other stuff in the pipeline I will see if I can get the deets.

    Report comment

  • David Hughes, La Jolla, CA says:

    Sweet! I want to help too! My hat is off to the BMORG in securing this beautiful slice of our planet and to their generous benefactor(s) for their wisdom and vision. Bravo, burners. This is really great news. It made my day.

    I can hardly wait to become part of the process in making something special happen here that combines responsible stewardship of this unique property with the promise of creating “new possibilities, new cultural experiments, and art and innovation projects on a scale never before envisioned”.

    Report comment

  • Akakij Senti Akakieviç says:

    I hope that this beautiful land will be protected as well as possible . keep humans out of here!

    Report comment

  • Mikael says:

    Also is sought after for possible lithium deposits.

    Report comment

  • jo jo joey shabidoo says:

    This is great. There’s been a feeling in the air that Burning Man had reached a peak and had nowhere to go but mainstream. This opens new, interesting potential. To remove the giant rave aspect might encourage new creative culture of some sort. I
    I am going to start a piggy bank fund specifically so I will be able to participate when the first mystery event occurs.

    Report comment

  • David Brown says:

    I wish to offer a sincere THANK YOU to all the GIVERS who made this step possible.
    THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO!!

    DaddiBrown aka BlueBerry Ferry

    Report comment

  • jo jo joey shabidoo says:

    Please bring permaculture ideas and ethics to this place.

    Report comment

  • Sheyanah says:

    Oh the possibilities… excited to see how this develops. Ready and willing to help however I can.

    Report comment

  • Sylvana says:

    Animals in such area live right on a ground because the vegetation is poor. For example the bird’s nest are one the sand so anybody who walk not knowing that, will destroy the nest because the parents will not go to feed the baby, too dangerous, and so on…

    Report comment

  • rod pujante says:

    Harveyville, NV

    Report comment

  • Aimee says:

    Wonderful! I can’t wait to see how this develops and I hope someday to see and contribute to making this new area something beautiful inside and out.

    Report comment

  • Infored says:

    Year around? Yea,we get to spend some winters there. That’ll be a change. Does it already have a grave yard?

    There are lessons to be learned from Perma Burn, (S. Of Alturas) if one wants to get a head start.

    Report comment

  • Coltyn Fisher says:

    I’m thinkin a hologram of the Burning Man in the entrance would be awesome! I have a mirascope that produces holograms and I am working on making it bigger. It works by angling mirrors the right way, check it out (mirascopes) on YouTube to see for yourself.

    Report comment

  • Ziganne says:

    This is actually pretty awesome. And the property has WATER! I know there’s a lot of hard work and planning ahead. (Miles of roads!) But I’m dreaming about someday soaking in one of those geyser-heated pools. Kudos, Burning Man Project!

    Report comment

  • la la ru says:

    this is AMAZEBALLS!!! i appreciate hearing the back-story. congratulations to all who so clearly desired this fascinating step forward in our culture. and to all of us who are co-creating it– Cheers!!! xoxo

    Report comment

  • You know, we are witnessing the creation of a whole new permanent sacred location/monument, and it is of our own creation! Do you recognize how rare in a lifetime we ever get to see something like this, let alone be part of it’s creation???

    Report comment

  • paul wand says:

    Seems nice, we have a large scale art idea based on the planets

    Report comment

  • Olga says:

    Wow! My mind is blown by the Universe of possibilities what this can turn into… The potential of this experiment is immemse!!! Humanity got the sandbox to really show what we worth. Hope we will not blow it. They need some major futurists sociologists to get involved – what a beautiful lab for socio-cultural experiments! So excited to see where this will go! PS but can we all agree that first of all we need a retirement house the size of Babylon tower there for all of us clowns to finally be home?…

    Report comment

  • Robert Pastterson says:

    It sounds like such a corporate type of move. Why not buy a site so Black Rock City could be a semi-permanent sight and avoid all the hassles with the BLM/Gerlach/Nevada? It sounds like a small band of people have themselves a playground, and will invite selected guests to enjoy the fun.. Or is this where all the richies will establish their capitalist take on the Burning Man “experience”, with air conditioning, servants, contractors, catered food, etc.? You can chopper right in!

    Report comment

    • Corvus says:

      The idea of buying a site to hold TTITD has been hashed and rehashed over and over again. If you can come up with a suitable site for a suitable price, bring it forward for consideration.

      And even if the BORG does develop it solely as a place “where all the richies will establish their capitalist take on the Burning Man “experience”, with air conditioning, servants, contractors, catered food, etc.” (doubtful), so long as it doesn’t siphon the money *we* pay for TTITD I don’t care. Like that event whose name escapes me right now held down by Las Vegas for a couple years, it will give ’em a place where they can play at being burners and leave the real thing alone.

      Report comment

  • Captain Nice says:

    The grand experiment continues. Let’s do remarkable things.

    Report comment

  • burnersxxx says:

    Whatever it cost to purchase the land, there are going to be capital development expenses as well as on-going operational expenses. Perhaps rather than everyone bashing JV, someone from BMOrg could clarify if there is any intention to use money raised by the Burning Man Project in ticket sales to BRC to develop Fly Ranch – or if this is always going to be a separate project funded entirely by these unnamed donors, and it’s own activities.

    Seems to me that this is likely all part of the Burning Man Project. The purchase price is just the beginning.

    Report comment

  • poppy.dreams says:

    What about if the land was re-gifted to First Nation pple?

    Report comment

  • AlwaysBeBatman says:

    Educational article from New York magazine
    http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2015/08/will-burning-man-become-a-permanent-community.html

    ***
    Burning Man first tried to buy it in 2005. They tried again a few years ago, but the asking price was around $11 million to $12 million, and they only raised about a half-million dollars, he said. But last year, the landowner Sam Jasick passed away, leaving his son Todd in charge, and Todd said he’d welcome another offer. Roger, who lives in the nearby town of Gerlach, decided this time he would get it right.
    ***

    Report comment

  • Deryk says:

    I’ve been there several times and this isolated beauty is really a unique place of it’s own.. The atmosphere and silence is something you will never forget your whole life. Maybe you’ll love to see my video I did some years ago >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7tWyIGRxYU

    Report comment

  • Bob Bobson says:

    See, this is what makes me laugh about you dirty hippies. Ohhh burning man is all about Peace and Freedom. All the while these capitalist machines are taking your cashing and churning out more capitalism.

    This will be a legal morass within 5 years, bankrupt within 7.

    Report comment

  • Andyman says:

    Very cool! Congrats gang. I know a lot of hard work went into this project and for many years. I’m excited to see how this unfolds and to see what opportunities reveal themselves for events, art, retreat, event production support, connection, preservation and more. Such an incredible evolution. “Burning Man is what you bring to it.” Way to bring a huge slice of “place” to the table that can have a more permanent home in the hearts of so many.

    Report comment

  • JadeRumour says:

    I believe the current paradigm cannot be overthrown, but it can be made irrelevant. This little piece of the planet gives all of us, the paradigm shifters ( and if you don’t believe that’s true, you’re not thinking big enough), a way to gently step into the next phase of our Be-ing.
    The moment to Dream Big Is Now. I am so grateful I am here to witness it.

    Report comment

    • mi says:

      Hey, you know what would be a radical work of art? Actually engaging in, investing in and working to improve the livability of the harsh environment called “the modern-corporate-environmentally-unsustainable-inhabitable-intolerant-cliquey-unfair-unjust” aspect of society we ACTUALLY live in. I know some drought-sticken, off-the-grid, harsh element, inhabitable urban areas that could use 6.5 million white-collar, first-world entitled dollars. Get real, K? Instead of pretending you’re setting a “radical example” on how we all should live, why don’t you really do something profound and Gift the pristine land to the rightful owners, native American tribes who actually know how to live our lands for centuries, and not whore it.

      Report comment

  • Chris Zinda says:

    The Geyser contains a species and its environment that should be considered “endangered,” the Thermophillic Ostracod and the photosynthetic cyano-bacterial mats upon which they graze and depend. I am interested in your plans for protection.

    Report comment

  • mike says:

    Purchasing Fly Ranch is typical BMORG stupidity. The main issues with Bmans future are the BLM with their anti pot nonsense and ridiculous demands and new yearly fees. Not to mention that Burning Man needs to grow to adhere to one of its main principles “radical inclusion”. This site in no way solves the growing problems Burning Man has. The Gerlach/Reno access highway can only support so much traffic movement so the only intelligent solution would have been to move the event to a more police tolerant accessible location. Again we see another decision made by a bunch of mindless idiots. Lets not forget the ticket lottery and will call disaster of 2014 just a few of the fiascos created by a bunch of burnt out hippies.
    What Burning Man needs to do is get greener not more exclusive. Purchasing a site where an electrical grid could be installed with water would reduce the carbon footprint!
    This site will only be available to the BMORG and their friends and during the BURN they will have an exclusive enclave to lounge by a swimming pool.

    Report comment

  • Shepard says:

    Land ownership is a crime. The earth is not your property. You assumed a huge reasonability for the stewardship of this land and that is all.

    Report comment

  • mi says:

    Hey, you know what would be a radical work of art? Actually engaging in, investing in and working to improve the livability of the harsh environment called “the modern-corporate-environmentally-unsustainable-inhabitable-intolerant-cliquey-unfair-unjust” aspect of society we ACTUALLY live in. I know some drought-sticken, off-the-grid, harsh element, inhabitable urban areas that could use 6.5 million white-collar, first-world entitled dollars. Get real, K? Instead of pretending you’re setting a “radical example” on how we all should live, why don’t you really do something profound and Gift the pristine land to the rightful owners, native American tribes who actually know how to live our lands for centuries, and not whore it.

    Report comment

  • Bob Jasper says:

    I am totally amazed at this. My dad and I used to camp, prospect, look for arrowheads and hardly ever see another soul in this area when I was in high school (late 50s & early 60s). I also worked one summer on the Fly Ranch. Seems to me the owners name was Fly, but I could be wrong. I do know he had a plane and flew in there periodically to check on things. I remember the hot springs, but there was no “geyser” there at that time. There were also more hot springs out near Black Rock point. Hope you put the land to good use. Would love to visit sometime.

    Report comment

  • phidias chinaglia says:

    How can we who have attended for years, built Art Cars and camps…. VOLUNTEER to do on-the-ground site development, surveys and other infrastructure contributions? In my own case – I can bring 15KW of portable power, scaffolds, tools and helpers. From Salt Lake City.

    Report comment

  • There are so many butterflys in my tummy that arose from just reading the intro to this in the jackrabbit email!! ..That, indeed.. This Is It! ..You knew it was coming.. you hoped that it wouldn’t have to be Utah.. XD .. The absolutely glory of this news, the article, that amazing video… it just fills my heart with sunshine & hope, knowing that the Vision is moving Forward, and that this incredible place -nearby*- the BRC we all know & love… that Frequency (*& Astro-locality!) of that Area, could or will be the home of a year-round Mecca… is siriusly the greatest news one could hear!! ^ . ^ BM shaped who I am, & now it is fabulous to learn there could be a new Branch, nearby the original Root, to expand with new & vast implications! So righteous!! Best (chess) move imaginable!! Right on, org!!! Here’s to Victory; hip hip, hooray!! <3

    Report comment

  • Heebiejeepie says:

    Looks like it has possibilities. Might have to run it a bit like a national park ; the tough Playa is one thing, but austere surroundings plus water is another. Maybe it will be a more contemplative vibe there ? I can envision elevated walkways and decks, pre-installed (and movable) supports (and electrical wiring) to support art projects above the pools and moist ground, high temp water kept separate from human flesh, etc. The MOOP found on the Playa (even in a good year) can’t be tolerated on Fly Ranch nearly as much, presumably.
    For a lot of people, deserts are the original “anything goes” venue ; the sand and the wind and the sun and the flash floods wash away, absorb and eventually erase all debaucheries. Fly Ranch is a little more delicate than that, it would seem, consistent with the preservation of it’s beauty and contrast with the surrounding desert. Let’s never see any satellite “before and after BM” pics of Fly Ranch that tell a sad tale.

    Report comment

  • Dave Thurbon says:

    This is great news! I’m looking forward to seeing how the ranch evolves over the coming years and decades. It sounds like rather than more infrastructure, this will be a kind of gallery and event space where the art and ethos can Burning Man can be experienced year-round. Thanks to all invovled.

    Report comment

  • Chaplin says:

    Ticket sales or private donors who cares? Burning Man made the money through private donors. But even if it was from ticket sales and they purchased a property to expand the project that’s badass. They could’ve bought a fucking yacht and not included anyone. I wouldn’t care if they use the money that they made off of tickets sales, they can do what they want. But, apparently they didn’t. I’m cool where ever the money came from it’s just amazing expansion of an amazing place that creates beauty, magic, fun and love!

    Report comment

  • artemis6 says:

    This is so exciting! I am glad that stewardship of the land is a high priority. IF any permanentish structures are built I hope they are hempcrete moon cocoons so they last and have low maintenance and building costs. You can get so creative with those and FINALLY people can be inspired by beautiful functional earthen buildings. Soil integrity is priceless, so i hope this is looked after also.

    Report comment

  • Elyna says:

    I am so inspired and excited by this movement. I am surprised by the care of this decision and will definitely be following the news on this as it goes forward. Great job Burning Man project

    Report comment

  • bernice says:

    Yes! I found out last night and i couldn’t be happier or more willing to help out. – The Fly Ranch was owned by my uncle and in his family for many years. I cant think of a better way to give it the love it needs so that everyone can appreciate such a magical healing place . I am ready to help in any way i can!

    Report comment

  • Handsome Daev says:

    Well the experiment continues, change happens and now we have a new address to add and that is a good thing. Sure we could have done a moon shot with Space X or even Mars, but it’s best to stick with what you know- Creating communities in harsh environments and then adding the hokey-pokey. It’s all grist for the mill. Love it up, the journey is the destination…oh and after we figure this out, we’ll be advising the new colony on Mars, just you wait and see.

    Report comment

  • "Lost Boy" says:

    Is it really going to take that much time? Come on guys, lets get to work!

    Unless you want to guard it from us so that your personal(s) idea will be brought to fruition with any collaborate from the rest of us. That would suck, but I bet your idea is still pretty good.

    Seriously though, it would be awesome if you created an online forum to discuss this land and it’s possibilities as a collective whole, brainstorming and debating, rather than just waiting around for a select group of people to do that without the rest of us.

    Report comment

  • zuni@gmail.com says:

    this is the saddest day i know … the beloved Fly Hotsprings owned by NONE and secured by millions of dollars … you have no idea what holding sacred free and without blemish is i am so sorrowed coming out on foot for years and with a heart full of what is sacred, you take from the nameless and put on your name the saddest day i know

    Report comment

  • Me says:

    It is of utmost importance that this project positively impact the local residents, wildlife, and the environment. Please address how you will accomplish this, in due course. Please find a way to bring a positive economic impact to the local area in as wide a way as possible. Many of the residents do not benefit from Burning Man currently – this is a way for you to change that. Engage them in this process.

    Also, you state the donors “will not receive any special access or ongoing control over Fly Ranch, Black Rock City, or Burning Man Project.” Are you telling us that these donors will not even receive tickets to Burning Man? I certainly would not have a problem if they did, but I find it hard to believe that they will not receive any “special access”, which would include a gift ticket. And if one of these donors requested to visit Fly Ranch, would you say no, since it is not “open”? Please be more specific and transparent. It is the nature of fundraising, for good reason, to be kind to your donors.

    Now that you own the significant water rights at this property, this will save a lot of money (previously spent) on water required for dust abatement in BRC. What will you do with this “savings”? Where will that money be spent? How will you ensure that you do not take more than your fair share of water?

    Report comment

  • Johnny The Rod says:

    It would seem the location lends itself to making a good staging point for BRC logistics and large art installations.

    Report comment

  • Raffi says:

    It will be interesting to see how things unfold with the ranch, and it looks quite beautiful, but…

    I was hoping Burning Man in general would move closer to civilization. The environmental impact of that many people going that far to reach BM each year is enormous. With this purpose the likelihood of a move becomes pretty remote.

    Report comment

  • Raffi says:

    ^purchase – not purpose!

    Report comment

  • max says:

    Glad to see we’ve abandoned discussing JVs original spew which he then corrected!
    And it looks like this is turning into that online discussion of what to do with tje land!
    I’m excited to think that now its possible to build mlre permanent solar powered facilities rather than using.contractors to put up diesel powered grids!
    I’ll be in DPW again this year and would love extending this conversation as I am also pursuing my NABCEP certification this year!

    Report comment

  • Maya says:

    Connect with the best permaculture designers in the world and take a year to make sure you watch all the wildlife migrations. It’s important to respect the beauty of this land and it is concerning inviting such a large mass of people into beautiful wide-open space. That being said there’s lots of opportunity and good luck with your endeavors. Just make it sustainable please. That’s what the world needs to see. Create biofuels on site for example for art cars that would be a good place to start.

    Report comment

  • paul emery quade says:

    Quite an interesting development. I have the greatest hopes for Fly Geyser in the hands of BMORG.

    As a native Nevadan, and “Burner” since ’96, I have enjoyed the opportunity to visit Fly many times over the years, thankful the land owners chose not to develop it, or honestly, allow public access. I loved being able to motorcycle camp there with very few people, if any, to interrupt the beauty and tranquility of the location.

    As BM has grown and attracted tourists to Northern Nevada, likewise my concern has grown regarding the impact on the area. “Our” State and the gems previously hidden here are becoming destination for ever-increasing numbers of people trying to get away. No matter how well intended, whenever you add more humans to the mix the problems to the flora and fauna are compounded, and the high desert of the Great Basin surprisingly fragile. Indeed, the beauty of Fly Gesyer is simply a man-made artifact, as the article correctly observes.

    In the end I hope to see the conscientious development of the area, and that I will be able to take my children to this gem in the high desert to enjoy it as I once did.

    Report comment

  • Michael says:

    Great now the cop will be even bigger as hole knowing that burning man is definitely not going anywhere.

    Report comment

  • Robert C. says:

    This will be a great getaway year’round from the politics and regiments of the default world as long as we once and for all decommodify the brandishing of national flags at Burning Man and related events; it’s just seem so wrong to escape the default world only to have the nationalism of certain regimes, or worse yet, symbols of fascism or Apartheid flapping and waving around on the Playa.

    Report comment

  • pat man says:

    I envision this as a place to come work together and have fun together, maybe on a ‘timeshare’ basis, a few weeks or months per year. You could even fly in, they probably have an old runway. My question, who decides who can enter and how to keep the riff raff out? Still follow the 10 principles?

    Report comment

  • Rusty Neadle says:

    Wow, what a gift, and what an amazing step for BM to make. As usual, carried out with good judgment, vision, taste, and care for the community. (I can’t believe how many comments have been expended on some silly ass who didn’t read the article and jumped to the wrong, small-minded conclusion. Sometimes we just need to say THANKS, and hope to see you there!)

    Report comment

  • Mehl W. Renner says:

    Wow, I have read before about this area and now that it has been purchased by Burning Man it really represents some fantastic opportunity! Yes, I am sure the main intent is for it to become a permanent Burning Man community. However, there is the possibility that eventually BRC could be moved to the large playa area next to Fly Ranch. This would make it far easier to have infrastructure equipment and supplies convenient instead of being in Reno. This alternate playa area next to Fly Ranch looks even slightly larger. An advantage could be that permanent dwellers could offer a special ticket to stay with them for the Burning Man event and more participants would not be such a problem. Perhaps the primary geyser that looks like dung is why this area is called “Fly” Ranch?! It would be awesome to alter this geyser, maybe with concrete, to be a large Burning Man monument with steam shooting out the ends of his arms. The possibility of harnessing geothermal power in this area for the energy needs of the permanent community has got to be a worthwhile pursuit. Solar energy is certainly available as well. Communal communities and a self-sustainable city that embraces a different lifestyle than the typical default world as we know it now will become more and more a trend in the future. This may very well be the beginning of a really grand experiment!

    Report comment

    • IFellFromTheSky says:

      “It would be awesome to alter this geyser, maybe with concrete, to be a large Burning Man monument with steam shooting out the ends of his arm”

      You are joking?….Right?….That would be ANYTHING but awesome…dismissed

      Report comment

      • JV says:

        It’s a man-made geyser to begin with, so it’s not like it’d be disrupting a centuries-long process. It started accidentally in the 60s during well drilling and the hole wasn’t capped properly, if I remember correctly. In light of its origin, I actually think it would be pretty cool to modify it in some way.

        Report comment

  • IFellFromTheSky says:

    Word in Gerlach is they are not hiring any locals from the area to help with this , all there own people…
    That kinda sucks …

    Report comment

  • slate says:

    its not written in stone – change is changing all the time – nothing is permanent

    Report comment

  • Ron Cole says:

    There is a 80 acre ranch next door for sale with well and more water rights for more info and pictures. Ron Cole 510 708 9833

    Report comment

  • James Farmer says:

    Wow. As one who participated in building Sky River in 1970 and Tin Cup Races in 1971, I have read all these comments and hear people with hopeful anticipation and some with no hope at all. I cannot say it cannot go wrong, but can rightfully hope it will go unbelievably right. From my first 23 years of life in Washington state to the next 42 years in Alaska, I have learned to have hope for the future of open thinking.

    Report comment

  • Don Ricardo Utilipantalones says:

    I’m happy that the property was purchased by a group such as the BMorg with such a loudly inclusive and creative vision. I may never go there myself. That has nothing to do with how I feel about it. I wonder if those who complain about elitism would prefer it got snatched up by a rancher who would trample it under his steers, or a developer who would surround the “geyser” (aka environmental damage turned into serendipitous beauty) with slot-machine farms and brothels. Actually, that doesn’t sound so bad, but, anyway.

    Report comment

  • Cautious Optimism says:

    I came across this news kinda late so I got to read through the comments after the dust had settled from JV’s comments. It struck me pretty hard to see so much antagonism over any perceived “negative” comments. Many of the reactions were over the incorrect funding information, but after those there was a continuous train of negativity. I’ll skip adding details about the irony there…

    What most troubles me is how many burners are too focused on a “positive” mentality. It is great, and is what makes BM such an amazing event and culture. However, vigilance and caution are vitally important with any group effort. There will always be some amount of greed, vanity, or whatever; and vigilance is required to keep those aspects from gaining a strong foothold.

    Radical inclusion is one of the pillars of BM, yet any perceived criticism is shamed and marginalized. If you truly want to spread the BM culture then vigilance and effort are required to make sure that culture does not get compromised. Accepting the people who have criticisms and inviting them into the “party” would be radical inclusion that would make the group stronger through diverse viewpoints. Instead it seems the go-to is to kick out anyone being a “downer”. The cliche party attitude.

    The most glaring problem that needs to be addressed is regarding Leave No Trace, one of the more vocalized virtues of BM. The extreme amount of pollution from generators, flamethrower art, and the burning of art installations goes totally against “our community respects the environment”. I know it is not a simple matter, and there is a long tradition behind burning, but I have yet to see much discussion about it, probably due to the exclusion of “negative” opinions.

    I hope Fly Ranch becomes a beacon that truly upholds the 10 principles, but without listening to the voices of caution it can easily take a slight turn which will have long term consequences.

    Report comment

    • Godmod says:

      I really love what you wrote here. A positive attitude should never come at the price of bashing dissenting opinion. Nothing wrong with keeping priorities in sight.

      Report comment

  • Gunslinger says:

    Even if BM bought this with ticket money, or ice or coffee sales money, I wouldn’t care. It’s their money, that we gladly paid them to be a part of the event that is Burning Man. So many people are upset that it is constantly evolving, but that is BM too.

    A lot of people said BM lost it’s soul when it moved from San Francisco. Remember? Then they fell in love with the dust. If BM decided to move to Fly Ranch or anywhere else would it destroy what is BM? Nope!
    If the hotshots from Google and Facebook can’t destroy BM, nothing can. Relax. We’re safe. Money will always be there and we (Burners) will always use it instead of it using us.

    Now just have a little bite of this cookie I made for you. Everything will be fine in short order.

    Report comment

  • P'Naughty says:

    Love the radical participation, even though most of it is bagging on JV who quickly realized his error and stated so. Sometimes you just got to give up your right to be right. Peace and Love.

    Report comment

  • Mike says:

    When i went to this thing last, it was 350 bucks to get tickets at the last minute, now it is a grand+ to get presale? this is no longer burning man. it is a rich man’s week long frat party, nothing more. Have fun in the wasteland LOL

    Report comment

  • Godmod says:

    Galt’s Gulch is real!

    I kid, I kid. I’m new here and admit to knowing less than you veteran burners, but I can see great potential for this piece of land, despite some legitimate concerns of practicing elitism. I’m not cynical enough to suspect the org of erecting a haven for the rich. Rather, I envision an artist commune/kibbutz or a training center of sorts for people all over the world to learn/trade skills.

    The rich can go anywhere in the world for a retreat, but I imagine that they, like everyone, want to see what visionaries and risk takers, those guys with the CRAZY, impossible, ‘it will never work in a million years!’ ideas come up with. That’s worth far more than a foot message or a personal yoga trainer.

    That’s my take anyway. In any case, the land is here. Let’s keep hopeful.

    Report comment

  • Dr. Dave says:

    This is a most excellent purchase and will only enhance the burning man experience. Thinking about keeping the burn alive is critical. I commend everyone involved in this. Thank you.

    Report comment

  • frekki says:

    This is very cool. But be careful, a lot of beautiful experiments have become ugly, Please don’t let Fly Ranch pull down Burning Man.

    Report comment

  • Comments are closed.