ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Horsemanship For the Real World

The first thing Russell Reid writes on the blackboard is "THINK." This lets students at the Feather River College Pack Station in on Russell's little secret: the packing program isn't just about tying hitches, it's about learning to think like a horse or mule and thinking through any situation they may encounter. 

"If I can get them to think, I've done my job," explains Russell. Of course, Russell does teach the basic principles of horsemanship and expose students to the skills necessary to work with horses and manage a business. The students' success, however, depends on their ability to apply these concepts and skills in a thoughtful manner.

The students are involved from the moment the foals are born until they are sold as riding horses. They try to prepare the horses for whatever circumstances they might encounter when they leave the station. "There are no excuses," says Russell, "if the horse won't get in the trailer when the time comes, they can't blame anyone but themselves." One of the highlights of the Equine Studies program is the annual Plumas Sierra Ranch Horse Sale where student raised and trained horses from the school's breeding program are sold. So far the program has met with tremendous success, if repeat buyers are any indication.

Horse ownership is not necessary to participate in the program. FRC has its own string of trail horses, an American Quarter Horse Association stallion and several brood mares. The breeding stock add a component to the program that provides students with practical experience in horse production and training. Students care for and train foals in preparation for sale as three to five year olds, contributing to support of the program.

Student Employment jobs are provided at the Equine Center to allow eligible students to help fund their educations and gain additional experience, by helping to maintain the facility.

DEGREE & CERTIFICATION OPTIONS

Hands-on Training

The Equine Studies Program provides hands-on training in practical and business skills for a variety of horse related career opportunities. Students have their choice of earning an Associate of Science degree or Certificate of Achievement in Equine Studies with a concentration in Horse Training, Ranch, Rodeo, and/or Pack Skills.  Please click on the following links to see more information about each of the degrees offered.

Associate of Science

• Equine Studies: Pack Skills
• Equine Studies Horse Training Skills
• Equine Studies: Ranch Skills
• Equine Studies: Rodeo Skills

Certificate of Achievement

• Equine Studies

Certificate Of Specialization

• Fundamentals of Pack Station & Stable Operations
• Fundamentals of Horse Training Skills
• Fundamentals of Ranch Skills
• Fundamentals of Rodeo Techniques
   

For a description of Equine Studies and Rodeo classes, click HERE

The underlying philosophy of the program is simple--with humans and horses alike, learning never stops. Whatever your horsemanship level, each horse and situation offers a new learning challenge. The most important principle of the program is that anyone who works with horses needs to acquire a deep understanding of the animals and an ability to communicate effectively with them.

Russell Reid: Director of Equine Studies