EMILY HSUEH

PONTIAC Jan. 27, 2021

Riders rejoice: a new addition to an Otter Lake farm will allow people to ride their horses at any time of the year.

Painted Hilltop Farm had construction completed on their new indoor riding megadome at the end of December 2020, after four months in the works. The new building is 60 feet by 180 feet, includes a heated feed room and viewing room and can safely accommodate six riders with room to spread out.

“I have been dreaming about a megadome for almost five years,” farm owner Charlotte Becker wrote in an email to THE EQUITY. “I spent a lot of time pricing them out, and planning, but it always went on the back burner. After doing a lot of research and asking questions, I decided it was time.

The 425-acre farm already . . .

featured a 70- by 140-foot outdoor riding area, but Becker explained that what she and the rest of the farm wanted was to offer a space where lessons and camps could happen without worrying about weather cancellations.

“It is open for use but won’t be usable until COVID restrictions lift,” said Becker. “Once they do, we will do a slow re-opening to ensure everyone is safe and protocols are properly followed before allowing everyone back in.”

Currently the farm is only open for boarders to come care for their horses.

Becker is prepared for when visitors are allowed back at her farm. Her and her sister love to teach riding which will be their main focus. They will be hosting various camps with equine assisted learning for youth from ages 6 – 16, and Becker has some more casual events planned which she describes as “a little something for everyone, with no experience needed.” These include:

• Youth Leadership – A six-week program focusing on confidence, teamwork, responsibility, planning, bonds and learning
• Family Night – An hour with the family learning positive communication, understanding and respect
• Date Night – Test and challenge each other to accomplish goals and grow closer together as a team with communication, trust and teamwork
• Ladies Night – Self-discovery through a unique girls’ night
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  “Once restrictions have been lifted, we would love to be able to have an open house, allowing people to come and experience our facility, the horses, and all the beauty it has to offer,” she concluded.