OCTOBER 2018 • NEBRASKAland 39
been vital to supporting the 4-H Camp, which also benefits
surrounding towns. Weddings, graduations, proms – the
camp operates as a community center for the region."
And in turn, the trail ride could not be successful without
local help.
True to 4-H fashion, the weekend requires all hands on
deck. Whether it's local ranchers who lend their panels
to pen in horses or donate Nebraska certified weed-free
hay – required by law in the forest; or all the volunteers
who keep the event running, who cook meals and spend
time mentoring young riders while out on the trail; or the
Nebraska Forest Service staff who agreed to maintain and
open up a small pasture – now called "Windmill 25" – to
serve as parking and trailhead ... the individuals who make
the 4-H Camp Trail Ride possible could not be faulted for
being short on heart.
Head and Health
Horses have long been a part of Nebraska's landscape
and culture, and the state's 4-H Horse Program aims to bring
along young riders who are responsible, self-disciplined,
thoughtful and caring. Many of the youth riders at Halsey are
current 4-H members, but this ride is also every bit as much
for the adults.
Pulling in Nebraskans from all corners of the state – both
city and rural, the forest's central location sees an average
of 100 riders each year, and in some years, the foundation
may welcome as many as 150. Men, women, and children of
all ages – including toddlers who share the saddle with their
parents – have enjoyed Halsey. They come to explore the
forest's miles of pine-shaded trails, open Sandhills country,
the camp atmosphere and friendships old and new.
Horses are kept inside pens available at the Windmill 25 area in the national forest. It is also where all trail rides begin and end.
"This is a family event – people bring their kids and grandkids – with so much
fellowship around the campgrounds in the evenings. The whole weekend is special,
plus you can't beat the scenery."
— Gary Stauffer, 4-H Trail Ride Co-Chair
