Spring Lake Ranch

Spring Lake Ranch provides substance abuse and mental health treatment in Cuttingsville, Vermont. Their program offers work-based opportunities where residents thrive in a community dedicated to long-term sobriety. Spring Lake does not accept health insurance for its daily fees, but financial aid is available for qualified clients.

Ranch Life

This is not a typical recovery program. Guests split into small groups who perform all the chores and work around the ranch. The farm crew cares for the animals including goats, pigs, chickens, cows and sheep. The garden crew works in the vegetable garden, helps in the kitchen, and works at the farmer’s market in Rutland.

They have a wood crew that stays busy in the 700-acre forest splitting, bucking, felling, limbing and hauling the wood their buildings use for heating. They also have a maple sugaring operation that requires much of the wood. The shop crew builds and repairs furniture and tools and keeps the engines running well.

A Thriving Community

Many people are missing healthy connections in their lives. Spring Lake Ranch believes through shared work, accomplishments and opportunities, you build relationships with others. As part of the ranch community, others depend on your efforts, and you depend on theirs. It can reduce feelings of isolation, build confidence and promote supportive behaviors.

They believe everyone can contribute and has a valuable place in the community of nearly 70 residents. The goal is to empower guests to grow and thrive by providing various challenges. They also emphasize acceptance and inclusivity.

The average length of stay is six to 12 months, depending on the symptoms and needs of each guest. Some may stay longer in the Elliot House, which helps with transitional aftercare services.