Santiago came to the area from Jalisco, Mexico in April 1978. He worked for Fuller Orchards in Palisade and then Don Williams here in Surface Creek for 24 years. Later he started working with Jack  and then Chris Wagner of Wags Orchards. In 2004, he purchased a home  on one acre near the orchards and then continued expanding by adding  20 more acres and later another 20 acres. He has continued adding to the home himself and creating a little piece of heaven on Nowhere Rd. 

 

Now Barajas Dream Orchards grows and sells beautiful honeycrisp, fuji, and gala apples along with peaches and vegetables. Santiago sells his produce at farmers markets in Basalt, Gunnison, and Delta. He also ships to clients across the country.

 

Having his own orchard is something Santiago always dreamed of and the pride he holds in making this dream happen radiates from this incredibly kind and hard-working man. Come see him on Apple Lane at the upcoming Applefest!

​