How We Began.........
History of NEECA
| A number of years ago, local horse enthusiasts in the North Central region of Massachusetts had a dream of developing an equestrian park in that area. The main purpose of this park would be to provide equestrians in the region a place where they could come with their horse(s) to participate in the activity of their choice, whether it be trail riding, showing, or participating in clinics, etc. When a large parcel of land suitable for this purpose became available for sale, this determined group of people approached the town of Athol for assistance and, with the support of the town, purchased the property. This was the beginning of the NEW ENGLAND EQUESTRIAN LAND MANAGEMENT CONSERVATION CORPORATION, a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting in the development and operations of lands set aside for the specific purpose of equestrian use for present, and future, generations of horse lovers. Under the guidance of the NEELMCC; the New England Equestrian Center of Athol (NEECA) was created. This association consists of a variety of dedicated individuals willing to donate both their time and labor to ensure this Equestrian Park becomes a reality. NEELMCC/NEECA started with 6 members, and ended 2011 with nearly 200! Through a variety of fundraisers; horse shows, clinics, wine tastings, auctions and tack sales, along with "hands on" work days up at the park, our membership has started to turn this dream into a reality. We now have a lovely 240' X 100' arena at the park, our first trail loop is complete, the warm-up area was completed last fall. In 2011 we completed a new driveway into the park, along with installing a water tank, and poles around the main ring for lights. 2012 plans include fencing in our warm-up arena and improving on-site amenities. Best of all, this is just the beginning! |
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