MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- A group of horse owners that board their pets at Camp Lejeune’s on-base stables have formed the Scarlet and Gold Riding Club and assumed management of the facilities as of June 1, after Marine Corps Community Services, the previous administrative body, announced plans to close the stables due to a lack of funding.
“If we hadn’t taken over, there would be no more riding here,” said Tammi Green, president of Scarlet and Gold Riding Club. “We all love it here so much, we had to do something.”
The horse owners created the association in order to legally lease and operate the stables aboard Camp Lejeune and continue boarding their animals here. And, although the stables are open and functioning, there are a number of changes that people should be aware of, according to Jada Meade, the 1st vice president of the Scarlet and Gold Riding Club.
The most significant change is that the stables no longer board any government owned horses, which means the facility no longer offers trail rides or lessons to the public and is only available to members of the club, according to green.
Individuals authorized to join the Scarlet and Gold and board their horse at the stables include active duty, reserve or retired military personnel, family members or Department of Defense employees. Potential members must also own their own horse or be sponsored by an existing member who owns and boards a horse at the stables, according to Meade.
The other important change is the stable’s transition to a completely self-boarding facility. The boarding amenities for members include a stall, two turnout pastures, which are rotated monthly, a feed pallet, a hay pallet, a tack locker and access to all trails and arenas, including two lighted arenas for night riding.
Membership fees are $50 per year, while boarding charges are $125 per horse per month.
“Compared to other stables in the area, we offer the best facilities for the lowest prices,” said Master Sgt. Douglas B. Reynolds, the maintenance officer with Scarlet and Gold. “but the real reason riders should join Scarlet and Gold is the people. Were like a family around here.”
Another reason horse owners should consider joining the club and boarding their horse on base is that the convenience and prices are unbeatable, according to Green.
“If you love spending quality time with your horse, and want a place that is clean and safe, where everyone is friendly, this is the place for you,” said Meade.