July 9, 2024

I feel so fortunate that my office window overlooks the Morgan Horse Ranch (MHR). On any given day, I watch park rangers and volunteers lovingly feed, water, and exercise the Morgans, a breed known for their intelligence, strength and gentle disposition. Our equine ensemble of six is essential to the preservation of the Seashore’s cultural and natural wonders, and I feel incredibly proud of all that they’ve done to support the wellbeing of our park and people.

Each year, it costs between $50,000 and $80,000 to keep the horses fed, trained, shoed, and treated by a vet—and we rely on our wonderful supporters to upkeep these essential operations. This month, we invite you to help us raise $80k to support the MHR program. And, I’m happy to share that this month, every dollar raised up to $20k will be matched by generous PRNSA supporters.

The MHR was an important part of National Park Service history as a breeding ranch, producing nearly 80 horses for mounted patrol programs in parks around the country. The breeding program ended in the 90s, but the mounted patrol program was brought back to life a few years ago and the team continues to look at other ways the horses can serve park initiatives and needs.

Recently, the MHR program conducted a pilot project with the help of a mule named “Shrek,” on loan from Yosemite National Park. The team recently celebrated its first interdivisional operation, involving specialized staff from protection, natural resources, trails, and education who successfully co-conducted a project to remove debris from areas of the Phillip Burton Wilderness. This project demonstrates what is possible when working together, cross divisionally, and with the support of the Morgan horses—as well as a kind mule. Thank you, Shrek, (he returned to Yosemite last month)!

(Click to see Shrek's great work during his time at the Seashore - reel by Park Ranger Sierra Frisbie!)

This year’s $80k fundraising goal (matched to the dollar until $20k) will help ensure that the horses are being trained to support interdivisional collaboration and operations–everything from public engagement and education, wildlife monitoring, and restoration and trail projects. Thank you for helping us sustain this wonderful program!

Heather Clapp

We’re hiring a full-time Bilingual Environmental Educator to plan and facilitate nature-based youth programs at Point Reyes National Seashore, with a special focus on leading culturally relevant programs delivered fully or partially in Spanish. The educator will manage overnight group stays at our Clem Miller Environmental Education Center, lead day-long outdoor experiences, organize equity-based community events, and more! See the full job description, and please share with anyone who may be interested!

We're looking for event volunteers to help at our 15th annual Party on the Pacific Plate on Saturday, September 21. Tasks will include setting up the bar and food station, cleaning up, monitoring the waste and recycle station, and assisting with decor and service. Please contact suzanned@ptreyes.org if you are interested.

We partner with the National Park Service to create opportunities for all people to experience, enhance, and preserve Point Reyes National Seashore for present and future generations. Support Point Reyes as a High Tide Monthly Supporter!