BY MARIA CHILDS, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
Thanks to generous philanthropic support, the equine program at Rock Springs Ranch is undergoing renovations over the next couple of years as part of the master planning efforts. With essential improvements already completed and more on the way, these updates are creating a stronger, more sustainable future for the horse herd and the people who learn and grow through participation.
In 2024, the first phase of this multi-year effort brought significant updates to the barn and surrounding facilities. New siding was installed on the barn, the bathroom was updated, and new quarantine pens and a round pen were completed.
“Each of these improvements contributes to a safer and more functional space for both horses and humans,” said Katelin Calhoun, the equine program manager at Rock Springs Ranch. “We are always thinking about how to best care for our herd and how to create meaningful, hands-on experiences for youth. Every change we’re making supports both goals.”
New side doors for the barn were completed earlier this year. Plans are also underway for a new wash bay and tack room, with completion expected by the end of the year.
This work has been made possible through the support of generous donors of the Kansas 4-H Foundation, including a significant gift from Earl and Molly McVicker. The McVickers are longtime champions of Kansas 4-H, and have invested in the future of the horse program at Rock Springs Ranch, helping to launch the next phase of improvements Beginning in early 2025, this next phase includes construction of an indoor arena and a new hay barn.
“We believe programs like this are essential to providing equestrian experiences and opportunities to all kids of all backgrounds, from beginners to more advanced riders,” Earl and Molly said. “This initiative reflects our personal values of enjoying nature, best seen from the back of a horse. We both grew up with horses as a part of our family life, both as pets and working ranch horses.”
Through their generous support of a new indoor arena at Rock Springs Ranch, Earl and Molly McVicker are helping expand equestrian opportunities to more youth and adult guests, ensuring that riders of all backgrounds and skill levels can learn, grow, and thrive.
“The indoor arena will be a game changer for our program,” Calhoun said. “It will allow us to expand programming into all four sessions of the year and improve consistency in how we train and ride, regardless of weather.”
The last phase of improvements planned at a later day focus on continued improvements for horse welfare and guest experience. Planned additions include a lean-to shelter and automatic waterers for the quarantine pens, a welcome pavilion at the front of the barn, a remodel of the outdoor arena, and installation of a concrete walkway and stall mats inside the barn.
“Horse care doesn’t end when a horse’s working days are over,” Calhoun added. “Many of the horses at Rock Springs Ranch have given years of service to Kansas youth and adults, and as they age out of active work, they continue to receive thoughtful, quality care. That’s a real commitment, and it’s something we take seriously.”
As the equine program continues to grow, it remains the most requested activity at Rock Springs Ranch. Its success is due in large part to the dedication of staff, the support of the Kansas 4-H Foundation, and the generosity of donors like the McVickers.
“The impact of this program goes far beyond the barn,” said Calhoun. “It’s about developing anyone who visits Rock Springs Ranch and making them ready to lead and care for others, whether that happens in a barn, on a team, or in their careers.”
While secured philanthropic support focuses on improving existing infrastructure and resources, the need remains to support the future improvements to the program and continue to care for the horse herd.
If you would like to support the lifelong care of the horse herd at Rock Springs Ranch, there are meaningful ways to get involved. To join this initiative and make a gift to support the equine program at Rock Springs Ranch, visit www.kansas4hfoundation.org or scan the QR code to the right.
Also, if you’re interested in donating a horse that meets the needs of the Rock Springs Ranch program, please contact Cindy Hart, senior vice president of development, by emailing [email protected] or calling 785-775-0123.