1. What exactly is the Bly Mountain Bonanza Community Development Group?

We are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit — a formal alliance of neighbors in the Bonanza and Bly Mountain area. We help each other with everyday homesteading skills, economic stability, and emergency response during wildfires, severe winter storms, power outages, and other crises.

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2. Do I have to be an expert to join?

Not at all. Some neighbors have tractors, chainsaws, or livestock trailers. Others simply need a ride to town or help shoveling snow. Everyone has value. Beginners are welcome — our classes exist to teach you what you don't yet know.

 

3. What is the Confidential Community Registry?

The Confidential Community Registry is a private, secure database we use only for emergency coordination. When you join, you tell us:

• Where you are located (general area or specific, as you prefer)

• What extra equipment you have that could help in an emergency
  (examples: chainsaw, tractor, livestock trailer, generator, snow plow, 4x4 vehicle, water trailer, medical kit, amateur radio, etc.)

• What skills you can offer (first aid, animal handling, chainsaw work, canning instruction, etc.)

• What needs you may have (elderly family member needing evacuation help, limited mobility, medical equipment that requires power, etc.)

This information is strictly confidential. It is never shared publicly or sold. It is only accessed during an emergency so we can match neighbors who need help with neighbors who can provide it — quickly and safely.

 

4. Is this just about wildfires?

No. Last year we had severe snowstorms that knocked out power across the region. Roads became impassable. People were stuck in their homes for days — some elderly residents ran low on medication and food. We learned that rural emergencies take many forms.

Our network responds to:

• Wildfire evacuations (especially animal evacuation)

• Winter storms and power outages

• Extreme heat or drought

• Any crisis where neighbors need neighbors

We also partner with United Way during larger emergencies like fire evacuations.

 

5. How do you help the elderly and people with limited mobility?

They are our highest priority. During an emergency, we:

• Call or visit to check on them personally

• Help arrange transportation if they need to evacuate

• Ensure they have medications, warm shelter, food, and water

• Clear snow from their driveways and paths

• Connect them with resources through United Way or other partners

No one is left behind.

 

6. Do you help with animal evacuation?

Yes — absolutely. We know that for many of us, horses, livestock, and even pets are family. During fire season or other threats, neighbors with livestock trailers and animal handling experience coordinate to evacuate animals safely. If you have animals, please note that in your confidential registry entry.

 

7. What kind of classes do you offer?

All classes are free and include lunch. Current topics:

• Poultry & Rabbits

• Horticulture

• Fire Preparedness

• Homesteading Part 1 & 2

• Food Preservation

• Water Bath Canning

• Pressure Canning

• Additional Classes

Homesteading classes cover food and plant systems, solar energy, water management, bushcraft, and survival skills.

Classes are held at the Bonanza Branch Library, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

 

8. Where do you meet?

We usually use the Bonanza Branch Library for classes, although they may be "on-site" at a different location as well. Living Springs Fellowship Church generously provides additional meeting space and supports our work in many ways.

 

9. How is this different from the government or a typical charity?

We are neighbors, not caseworkers. We don't replace emergency services — we complement them. When roads are closed, power is out, and help can't reach you for hours or days, your neighbors are already there. That's us.

 

10. How do I join?

It's simple:

→ Complete the Confidential Community Registry (skills, equipment, location, needs)
→ Join our Community Facebook Page for day-to-day connection
→ Listen to our weekly Community Radio Network for updates and conversation

You can also just show up to a class or event and talk to someone in person.

 

11. Is there a cost to join or take classes?

No. We are a nonprofit. Classes, registry access, and emergency coordination are all free. If you want to donate time, supplies, or money, that is always appreciated — but never required.

 

12. What if I don't have any extra equipment or special skills?

That's fine. Your willingness to be a good neighbor — to check on someone, to share information, to show up — is already a gift. And our classes will teach you skills over time.

 

13. How do I contact you in an emergency?

For life-threatening emergencies, always call 911 first. For community-level coordination (evacuation help, welfare checks, animal transport, etc.), we use:

• Our private emergency phone tree (activated during crises)

• The Community Facebook Page

• The Community Radio Network

When you join the registry, you'll receive instructions on how the emergency alert system works.

 

14. Can I remain anonymous?

You can join the Facebook page and attend public classes anonymously. However, to be part of the emergency response network — meaning you receive direct help or provide it during a crisis — we do need your basic location and contact info in the confidential registry. This is never shared publicly.

 

15. I'm not sure I need help right now. Can I just stay informed?

Absolutely. Follow our Facebook page or listen to the radio network. When you're ready — or when a crisis happens — we'll be here.