These simple structures that dot the countryside are becoming victims of decay, suburban sprawl, changes in farming practices and a growing trend to use old barn wood in new "rustic" buildings.
Read more about old barns at USA Today: http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2002-12-03-barn-usat_x.htm
We are lucky to have so many of our old barns left in Mariposa County, but as you drive around you can see that some of them are falling down. The collapsed barns often are ruined by leaky roofs and water damage. A new roof can cost upwards of $30,000 and that does not include the structural work. It is often more economical for the farmers to tear down the old barn and build a new one. Some barns are being dismantled for the timber.
We have a number of other old cabins and houses in Mariposa County. Many of these are in very bad condition and if they aren't preserved they will soon be gone.
To contact Linda:
Linda Gast
www.hummingbirdmountain.com
www.mariposaspca.org
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