Summer 2025 Newsletter

Eric Haraga
3 days ago
7 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

🌤️ A Breath of Fresh Air

It has been quite a few years since we have enjoyed a summer like this one. The mornings are cool, the afternoons warm but not oppressive, and the evenings have been downright pleasant. You can feel it in the horses and in the team—there is a calmness in the air and a rhythm to the days that just works.

We still had a handful of triple-digit days, and when they came, they hit harder because we have gotten used to the mild temperatures. But overall, this summer has been a gift.

A recent visit from a former boarder who now lives in Santa Rosa reminded us just how much pride we take in this place. She was amazed by the condition of the ranch and all the upgrades we have made. When you live in the day-to-day, it is easy to forget how much progress has been made. Her visit gave us fresh eyes to appreciate all the effort and care that goes into the ranch.

Big thank you to our incredible staff—Kathy, Laritza, Terra, Michael, and Debbie—for all that you do. Your consistency, dedication, and love for the horses show in every corner of this place.

🌾 General Happenings at the Ranch

The energy at the ranch has been light and steady. The horses are content, the routines are smooth, and the pastures are holding up well. Turnouts have remained consistent and the horses seem to be enjoying the extended daylight hours.

The evenings have been especially enjoyable, thanks in part to the new lighting. Many boarders have started coming out later in the day to ride or just spend time with their horses, and it has been nice to see that part of the ranch come alive in a new way.

We are also in the middle of a seasonal cleanout—organizing tack areas, clearing old materials, and refreshing a few things here and there. It is not flashy work, but it makes a big difference in how the space functions and feels.

🐴 Welcome New Ranch Members

Mia Parks and Tiger

Tiger, a tall black gelding with a calm and noble presence, is now enjoying his time in the gelding pasture while Mia attends veterinary school in Scotland. He has adjusted well to his surroundings and has made some early connections with the other pasture horses. We are happy to have Tiger here as part of the herd.

Natasha Rostak and Teller

Teller is a sweet and curious horse who genuinely enjoys people. He often meets folks at the gate and follows them along the fence line just to be near them. He is settling in nicely and seems to love attention. Natasha has been a great addition to the ranch community, and we are thrilled to welcome them both.

Christina Smith and Deo

Handsome Deo is our newest addition to the gelding pasture—but this is not his first time at Emerald Hills. He lived here once before and seemed to remember it the moment he stepped off the trailer. He settled in right away, calm and confident, like he never left. We are so happy to welcome Deo back, along with his owner Christina.

👋 Fond Farewell

Jason, owned by Lauren Maas

This summer we said goodbye to Jason, the kind and gentle gelding owned by Lauren Maas. Jason has moved on to a wonderful retirement home where he will enjoy his golden years surrounded by love and peace.

Many of you knew Jason as Rain’s best friend. Their bond was something special, and it was always a joy to watch them together. Rain is still here with us and has formed a new connection with Windfall, a new pasture companion who has helped make the transition easier.

Lauren is now attending the Royal Veterinary School in London, and while we will all miss Jason, we are happy he is in a place where he will be well cared for.

🕊️ In Loving Remembrance

Royal, owned by Jeannette

We also said a very difficult goodbye to Royal, a beautiful and beloved gelding who lived in paddock 24. Royal was recently diagnosed with ECVM, a congenital defect of the cervical spine that causes nerve compression and neurologic symptoms.

Royal had a quiet confidence about him. He was strong, dignified, and deeply loved by Jeannette. His presence is missed every day in the barn and on the grounds. Our hearts go out to Jeannette, and we will continue to honor Royal’s memory here at the ranch.

🏅 Boarder of the Month

Boarder: Jessica Bugbee

Horses name: Ember and Gitana

How long have you been riding horses: Since I was 12. I use to compete in hunter/jumpers until the age of 18. Now I just enjoy spending time with horses.
What is your favorite movie: the Princess Bride
What is your favorite hobby or pastime besides horse riding? Walking my dog.
What breed is your horse, and why did you choose this breed? Ember is a thoroughbred. I have always loved thoroughbreds for their athleticism and willingness. Gitana is an Azteca. I love Spanish horses. They are intelligent and have an easygoing personality.
What is your favorite food dish? It depends. Probably nigiri sushi
Name one thing about your horse that most do not know: Gitana used to be a brood mare. Ember used to have a career as a race horse.
What would your dream vacation be? Just relaxing somewhere by the ocean
What is one word that best describes your horse? Ember-sweet- Gitana- mischievous
What accomplishment are you most proud of? Gitana is one of the first horses I have started without the assistance of a trainer.
Why do you enjoy horse riding? Learning to try to be mentally present with the horses, it helps me relax.
What is something on your bucket list that you hope to accomplish soon? One day purchasing my own horse property with a large pasture.
What advice would you give to someone new to horse riding? Try to always do what’s best for your horses even if it’s not in your own best interest.
What do you do for a living? I work as a Physician assistant specializing in Emergency and Addiction medicine

🛠️ Ranch Improvements

New gate access

We added a new gate to expand access to the trails and provide a secondary egress point in case of emergency. This also creates a little more flow for riding options during busy times. Ask Laura if you would like to start using it.

Irrigation system upgrade

We have been working closely with K Line North America to update our irrigation system. The old setup was incredibly labor intensive and used more water than needed. The pond pasture is now fully irrigated and green, and the front pasture is partially green with more work underway.

Several pipe adjustments and riser corrections have been completed. We are making steady progress, and we appreciate everyone’s patience as we work through some of the final fixes.

New lighting around the barn

We added string lights around the white barn, wash rack, cross ties, and hitching post. The effect has been both practical and beautiful. It adds warmth and safety to the space and makes evening visits feel cozy and inviting.

Sprinkler restoration in the pond pasture

The large rotating sprinklers—our “big guns”—have been reinstalled in the pond pasture. These are key to keeping that area properly watered, and their return has already made a noticeable impact on the grass.

Fence repairs and ranch cleanup

We repaired about 50 feet of fencing in the gelding pasture and another 30 feet in the mare pasture. These sections were beginning to show wear and have now been reinforced to improve safety and turnout structure.

We also spent time removing old equipment and clutter that had built up over the years. These types of cleanup projects are often invisible to the eye but make a big difference in the overall feel and safety of the property.

Water tank platforms

We continued building sturdy platforms beneath our water tanks across the property. These platforms help keep tanks level and secure, which is critical for consistent water flow and safety, especially as the ground shifts seasonally.

Pond aeration and water treatment

We installed a new aeration system in the pond and began treating the water to combat a persistent aquatic fern. It looks like algae but is even harder to eliminate. While the treatments do their work, we are also netting out the plant manually when needed.

Fire safety work

We hauled out an entire dump truck worth of green waste this season as part of our fire break clearing. This work continues with weekly bin loads and ongoing brush removal to keep our fire zones safe and clear.

Rodent control

Earlier this summer, a few rat litters made their way into one of the tack rooms and the grain area. We used humane trapping methods to relocate them, and our barn cats continue to manage the usual mouse traffic. Things are currently stable, and we will stay on top of it.

🧠 Fun Facts About Horse Care & Health

How horses sleep—and what happens when they do not

Horses doze often while standing, but real rest—the kind that includes REM sleep—only happens when they lie down. Horses need to feel safe and relaxed to do this, and if they do not, they may suffer from sleep deprivation.

Sleep-deprived horses may become unsteady, irritable, or even collapse from exhaustion. Creating a secure and peaceful environment allows them to rest fully and maintain better health overall.

📸 Photos of the Month

If you have a photo you would like to share for the next newsletter, send it to info@emeraldhillsranch.com.

⚠️ Safety Issues & Reminders

Be alert for animals near vehicles

Jasmine and our barn cats tend to nap in the shade under parked vehicles, especially on hot days. Please check under your car or trailer before driving away.

Trailer access and driving patterns

The pond pasture gate is part of our emergency evacuation plan and is not for everyday use. If you have a large rig and need to use that route, reach out to Laura so we can coordinate a safe time and clear the pasture of horses.

Overflow parking

If the front area is full, please park around the back of the barn. It helps keep the flow of people and vehicles safe and easy, especially on busy evenings and weekends.

🖼️ Cartoon of the Month

💬 Final Thoughts

Rules at the ranch are not random. Each one has a story behind it, often rooted in a moment that taught us something important. They are not designed to restrict your experience but to protect it.

This month, you will see an updated set of ranch rules posted by the bathroom. Please take a moment to read through them and make sure any visitors you bring are also aware. It helps keep the ranch safe, calm, and consistent for everyone.

Thanks for being part of Emerald Hills Ranch. Whether you have been here for years or just joined us, we are grateful for your presence, your horses, and the way you help shape the community here.

Laura & Eric