Last November, we shared the arrival of a new tractor on the BCBS campus and invited the community to help name it. We’re happy to introduce its name: Karma Yāna, “the work or action vehicle that gets things done.”
This past winter brought significant snowfall, and with it a clear reminder of how much care it takes to keep the campus accessible and safe. The tractor has already proven itself, clearing snow banks from parking areas and roadways and helping ensure that teachers, practitioners, and staff could move through the space with ease.
Beyond winter work, Karma Yāna supports many aspects of caring for the land throughout the year. Its bucket is used to move sand, soil, mulch, and wood chips for the gardens and grounds, and to lift and place large stones for rock walls and landscaping. With fork attachments, it can carry logs and brush, supporting ongoing maintenance and stewardship of our campus.
The addition of a brush mower allows the outer fields to grow throughout the season, creating habitat for pollinators and other wildlife, before being cut back in the fall. Together with the bucket, it also helps reclaim areas overgrown with brambles and bittersweet.
We’re grateful to our Facilities Manager, Brett, for the care and attention he brings to maintaining the campus, and to the donors whose generosity made the purchase of this tractor possible.
Bhikkhu Anālayo even shared his appreciation for the new tractor, which made it possible for Brett to clear a snow-blocked area so a delivery truck could reach his kuti with needed heating fuel. We’ve heard similar gratitude from yogis who experienced the benefits of this work throughout the winter.
May it continue to support all who visit BCBS!
