Local equine rescue group losing farm

The farm where the Standardbred Retirement Foundation (SRF) has been housed for the past three years is being sold, and the rescue group currently has nowhere else to go.

After 17 years of rescuing horses, the SRF finally had a place to call home in 2006 when it moved into a farm in Hamilton, Mercer County.

Now the farm is being sold and the 21-year-old nonprofit organization created to care for, rehabilitate and secure lifetime adoption of racehorses must move in five months.

SRF has put out a call for help to find a new facility. While 20 acres would suffice, 30 acres would be more suitable. The group said it does not need much stall space, and would consider boarding some horses off the new location.

SRF member Paula Campbell said having the space to house 25 to 30 horses at a time was ideal for adopting horses out and running youth programs.

“Ideally, staying in the south central part of New Jersey would be most advantageous, as we have wonderful volunteers,” Campbell said.

Dom Nawrot, trainer and caretaker at SRF, said local veterinarians also play a part in the decision.

“Drs. Bokman, Hogan and Fox are key to our work. Their help is gratis,” Nawrot, said.S

RF board member Judy Bokman said the indoor arena at the 25-acre site the group is using now has made year-round training and youth programs possible.

She also said the SRF may have to scale back its rescue efforts if a large enough facility cannot be found.

“Managing this large number of horses at boarding facilities is not an option, Bokman said. “It was very difficult to provide the right care and situation for every horse when we had less than half the number we do now. Even with sophisticated databases of detailed information on every horse at every location, it is overwhelming.”

Bokman said this is an emotional time for owners, trainers, staff, volunteers, youths and horses — all those touched by SRF’s mission.

Individuals who may be able to help the SRF find a new home should call 609- 324-1500 or email admin@srfmail.com with information.