Storm hits horseback riding center in Santa Ynez Valley
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY, Calif. - The recent storms left a big mess for the Santa Ynez Valley Horseback Rides in Buellton.
"We were flooded pretty badly … couple foot of water … destroyed all of our footing … several fences were nocked down," said owner Bob Sweeney of the Santa Ynez Valley Horseback Rides.
The 55,000 square feet facility experienced damaged to 15 horse pens, three arenas, and several areas of fencing.
But for owner Bob Sweeney, his priority is keeping all the animals safe.
"Trying to keep them dry … come on over the mud as much as possible and we took them to High ground where we could and they’re all safe. They all endured the storm," said Sweeney.
The storm caused the facility to shut down for several weeks.
"It was devastating really because I know what it takes for this business because rides equals. Hey it equals farrier service is it requires payroll everything depends on the rides coming in," said barn manager Michelle Alexander of the Santa Ynez Valley Horseback rides.
While the flooding out a damper on business, the stables remain 100 percent operational.
"Business has been slow ... because no one really wants to be out in this kind of weather. It’s not fun for the guys that’s not fun for the trail guys," said Alexander.
But the horses don’t seem to mind.
"The horses are … they are such good animals … Where they are like … all right man OK water crossings OK you know they’re amazing. They’re awesome," said Alexander.
Sweeney hopes to receive financial assistance from the government to help repair flood damages.
"Even a loan to help us regroup and put this ship back together. People come to ride with us all over the globe and so we drive a lot of tourism here," said Sweeney.
The ranch closed the entire month of January, and the last week of Cowboy Christmas, which was also greatly impacted with the destruction of 8 tents and many decorations.Â
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