Training horses is expensive, making equestrian activities a splurge. A land dispute can be a messy deal and if it is a stable in question, the horses are the most vulnerable. Recently, this happened when authorities abruptly ended the lease of a well-known equestrian facility.
According to WWJ Newsradio 950, in September 2022, Commerce Township authorities canceled their contract with equestrian activities at Windmill Farms, resulting in the displacement of over three dozen horses. Even though it happened a long time ago, the horses still have until June 19th, 2023, to leave the 30-acre location.
Terrible news for the local equestrian enthusiasts
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There aren’t many horse farms still in operation that welcome visitors and high school equestrian teams like Windmill Farms was one such exception. Commerce Township owns the 30-acre horse farm located at the intersection of Wiixom and Michigan’s Charms and Glengary Roads, but Carrie Hancock manages the equestrian center. Although the Commerce Township Board of Trustees initially approved a five-year concession deal for the popular equestrian facility, the board has now chosen to end the contract after just two years. For over seven months, Hancock and other equestrians and community residents have fought against the closure of the farm, believing that the facility’s riding activities are invaluable to the area.
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Hancock and the residents were battling to save the facility because of the equestrian programs it provided to local schools. Commerce Township officials announced last month that the Township would have sole control of the farm beginning on June 19, 2023, after the remaining legal action against the land was settled on March 15.
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According to WWJ Newsradio 950, they additionally stated local enthusiasts would be the only ones to profit from the takeover since they want to expand equestrian activities. Hancock and the locals were just left “devastated” by the court’s decision, as this would not only ruin their contributions over the years but also leave 35 horses homeless. To prevent the animals that have lived in the same spot for almost 15 years from becoming homeless after June 19, Hancock has been given full responsibility to find them a new home. In addition, a $30,000 fundraising effort has been launched to aid with the placement of these horses.
Equestrian facility operator must relocate 35 horses and vacate Windmill Farms. Commerce Twp officials want her — and them — gone by June 19. Where will they go? Where will area schools’ equestrian teams practice? More @WWJ950 and https://t.co/CkYTXL3e7P. pic.twitter.com/o7courPPlp
— Mike Campbell (@reportermikec) April 14, 2023
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There are still months left to find these horses a new home, but time is running out. Stay tuned for further updates.