City of North Las Vegas nods to the past with planting of fruit trees and vegetables from original settlement

The Kiel Ranch Historic Park in North Las Vegas is unique in Southern Nevada as the only municipality-managed orchard in the region. A $150,000 restoration project is being completed as the City focuses on mitigating the urban heat island effect and addressing food insecurity with a major enhancement of the orchard. The fruits of the project will be made available to the public after a private grand opening event on Wednesday, April 30, at 10 a.m. at 2465 Kiel Way.

"The City of North Las Vegas is committed to improving the health and well-being of our residents, and a key part of that commitment is expanding our tree canopy and providing new solutions for those facing food insecurity,” said Mayor Pamela Goynes-Brown. “This revitalized orchard will bring lasting benefits to the community, including access to fresh produce and expanded shade. We’re excited to welcome everyone to the park to explore the orchard’s history and experience the impact of this restoration firsthand.”   

The City planted 36 fruit trees on one of the area’s earliest settlement sites, including citrus, fig, almond, apple and pistachio. In addition, the City of Las Vegas donated nine four-foot box trees that are native to the region. The tree palate was designed by four local arborists, ensuring that the orchard can thrive in the city’s desert climate. 

Two authentic chuckwagons have been installed in the orchard to honor the historic significance of Kiel Ranch, and a modern split-rail fence replicates one from the late 19th Century. Additional seating is available throughout the orchard and new walking paths provide access to various amenities. 

The enhanced orchard also offers educational and volunteer opportunities, including classes on gardening and farming. To learn more about this historic park and all the new amenities, visit cityofnorthlasvegas.com/kiel. 

About Historic Kiel Ranch Park

Kiel Ranch Historic Park offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich past. The park features historic structures, a family plaza, rolling lawns, and an abundance of interpretive information that highlights the area's diverse history. Originally part of a 240-acre homestead established in the late 1800s by Conrad Kiel, the land was used by Mormon missionaries as a farm for Native Americans before Kiel's settlement, with artifacts suggesting the presence of indigenous Paiutes long before any settlers arrived. Recognized for its historical significance, Kiel Ranch was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in October 1975.

The park features one of the oldest standing adobe structures in Nevada, a cottage known as the Doll House, and an active artesian pond. Interpretive nodes throughout the park educate visitors on the site’s rich history.