Laura and Jonathan Ayers

Now retired, Laura and Jonathan were Armstrong Redwoods State Park horseback riding concessioners for over thirty years where over 20,000 people rode astride their well-trained Quarter Horse to enjoy the beauty and splendor of the Austin Creek Wilderness and learn about horses, nature and life. Jonathon is a long time horseman who learned about packing in Jackson Hole Wyoming before working on a Texas cattle ranch and ultimately landing in Sonoma County, meeting Laura and starting the redwoods packing business.

Amber Bowen, DVM

Growing up in Sonoma County competing in both Western and English disciplines, Dr. Bowen returned to the area after graduating from the UC Davis Vet School in 2014. When the October fires hit, Amber was at the Fairgrounds large Evacuation Center from day one and stayed through the closure of the center. Dr. Bowen’s calm, tireless and dedicated leadership was instrumental in the enormous success of the rescue and medical management effort during those chaotic October days.

Sue Curry Shaffer

Well-known and long-time local equestrian, Sue is the founder and co-owner of Fairwind Farm in Santa Rosa. She is a USEF “S” Dressage Judge, an FEI Para Equestrian Judge and last year, the only candidate selected to be a United States Dressage Federation “L” Program Faculty Member. She also started a highly successful breeding program with her foundation Oldenburg stallion Donnerschlag who recently passed at age 30.  A consummate teacher, hundreds of riders from near and far have sought Sue out for supportive and enthusiastic instruction in dressage.

Michael Murphy

In many local circles, Michael is, and has been for a long time, the face and voice of the equine community. He has been enmeshed in equine activities and organizations for 37 years and is a founder of the Sonoma County Horse Council and President for 10 years. Michael gives his time freely and enthusiastically for equine interests and has served on many boards, commissions and committees including the Santa Rosa Junior College Equine Studies, Cal Expo, Back Country Horseman of California, the Marin-Sonoma Animal Resources Committee, the Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation, and the Sonoma County Fair Board.

Donate to SCHC Fire Relief Fund

In the midst of these terrible fires, Sonoma County Horse Council knows how critical donations are to recovery and rebuilding for the future. The Council's Equine Disaster Relief & Preparedness fund is an existing fund set-up after the Valley Fire indicated the need for such a fund. Proceeds shall be used to provide relief to local victims with equines and equine businesses and for preparedness programs going forward. Donations may be made online using our secure donation form directly below. Info for donation by mailed check can be found on the donation form as well. 

Education

Places to Ride & Clubs

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