MISSION & PROGRAMS
Mission:Green Chimneys is a multi-faceted nonprofit organization helping young people to maximize their full potential by providing residential, educational, clinical, and recreational services in a safe and supportive environment that nurtures connections with their families, the community, animals, and nature.
Our organization conducts Equine Assisted Services in accordance with the
EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS).
Our organization provides outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
25% of our total programs and services are equine-related.
The programs our organization conducts involve the direct use, care, and/or shelter of equines to fulfill our mission.
Our organization
DOES NOT CURRENTLY use satellite, suport, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.
Summary of organization's recent accomplishments, goals, strategies to achieve the goals, and capabilities to meet the goals, including its long-term plans to sustain its programs:In the 2024-2025 school year, Green Chimneys began to transition its equine-assisted activities program from a therapeutic riding and groundwork program to a groundwork-only program (no riding). This has created new opportunities for our students in animal-assisted therapy, with an enhanced focus on animal welfare.
Our program is now entirely ground-based, which means we focus on student interaction with horses without riding them. We practice Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL), an experiential approach where students develop social-emotional skills and personal growth through meaningful interactions with horses. Students connect these skills through basic care, handling and training, and learning to understand horse behavior and how it relates to human social circles.
Students gain a wide range of useful skills, from procedural tasks to more perception-based activities. Fundamental skills include proper horse care and clear communication techniques. When you’re working with an animal that weighs over 1,000 pounds, understanding body language is incredibly important!
Students engage in activities such as grooming, leading, lunging, ground driving, liberty training, and longlining. They assist staff in keeping the horses mentally and physically fit through varied training exercises,and desensitizing them to our active campus. Students also have the opportunity to learn about equine nutrition, anatomy, and physiology through caretaking tasks and education-focused activities, such as art projects and herd observation, facilitating participation for those with a lower degree of comfort.
Students practice communication skills and build on empathy by recognizing the needs of the animals, and their role in the horses’ care and well-being. They also learn to develop observation skills by reading their horse’s body language, and identifying signs of relaxation and stress to better respond to the horse’s needs.
We’ve noticed such positive changes in our horses. Without the pressure of carrying riders--particularly beginners, who can be more challenging, or even frustrating for a horse to accommodate—they seem more relaxed and freer to express their unique personalities. The barn atmosphere is noticeably calmer without the rush of preparing tack for riding lessons.
This revised groundwork approach also allows us to welcome horses of all ages and abilities, including those with special needs who might struggle in a traditional riding program. We recently took in a horse and two donkeys from two local horse rescues. The physical demands of a riding program makes many rescued horses unsuitable but now we can focus on all the other aspects that make them good partners for our students!
Students recognize that these horses still have great value by being able to empathize with their situations, and be a part of the healing process. Our equine team can provide specialized support while giving students hands-on experience with equine medical treatment, such as regular laser therapy or wraps. This concept -- that not having a certain ability does not equate to an inability to make a meaningful contribution -- is a strong, transferable example to our students.
Without the need to focus on riding mechanics, students can concentrate on the horse’s cues during their classes. They experience things in the present moment, just as horses do. Groundwork also makes the program more inclusive. Students who are physically unable to participate in riding can fully engage, and hesitant students can be met where they are.
Our herd ranges in size, so students can partner with animals of a size that matches their comfort level. Many eventually feel comfortable graduating to work with larger horses, or form a deep and meaningful bond with their current partner. For students, the relationship fosters growth, confidence and compassion that extends far beyond the barn, while it builds trust and enriches life for the horse. We are already seeing the impact as humans and horses make gains—all without anyone climbing into a saddle.
Please describe what steps your organization takes to ensure that:
1) all interactions between your equines and people are mutually beneficial and conducted in accordance with the
Guidelines for Human-Equine Interactions stated below;
2) all equines in the care of our organization and/or equines that participate in the organization's program have access to clean drinking water at all times; nutritious food in sufficient quantity, including natural forage such as pasture grass and/or hay; appropriate veterinary, farrier, and dental care; shelter and protection from the weather; sufficient safe space to move around comfortably on a daily basis; and daily opportunity to freely interact and have contact with other equines:
Green Chimneys takes the following steps to ensure that our equines are benefiting from their interactions with our students:
* We have an extensive individualized horse care plan developed in cooperation with our veterinarian, farrier, equine nutritionist, saddle fitter and other specialists as needed. We also have an exercise/training plan implemented by our "Barn Buddy" volunteers (Green Chimneys staff members), to help each horse stay physically and mentally fit and ready for work.
* Our students are instructed in equine welfare and care issues and included in the day-to-day care of the horses.
* Horses are kept in compatible herds, are turned out in pastures and paddocks with shelters during non-working times, and are only in their stalls prior to work, for medical reasons, or during extreme weather events.
* We have developed individualized student activity plans for each equine -- including tack selection/fit and the types of interaction the horse is trained/suited for.
* Our horses are either “free lease” (to be returned to their families at some point) or owned outright by Green Chimneys. We make a lifetime commitment to horses that we purchase or accept as donations. Once in our herd, no horse is ever sold.
Equine Assisted Services (EAS) Overview:
Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
Green Chimneys’ students with special needs participate in equine-assisted activities at least once a week. Our “horse barn” program follows a groundwork learning model, which means students focus on activities that don’t involve riding them. All students enrolled in our programs are required to attend a weekly, graded equine class as part of the curriculum. Other opportunities to interact with our herd are available through our work-based learning program, after school clubs, and scheduled breaks per a student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP). This program reflects Green Chimneys’ overall treatment approach of helping students develop social-emotional competencies, confidence, and resilience. Students engage in activities such as grooming, leading, lunging, ground driving, liberty training, and longlining. They assist staff in keeping the horses mentally and physically fit through varied training exercises, and desensitizing them to our active campus. Students also have the opportunity to learn about equine nutrition, anatomy, and physiology through caretaking tasks. Education-focused activities, such as art projects and herd observation create accessible learning opportunities for students not comfortable or able to participate in hands-on work. All activities contribute to both positive character development in children and improved quality of life for our horses.
This program has been successful at helping students develop social-emotional and communication skills, and build on empathy by recognizing the needs of the animals, and their role in the horses’ care and well-being. They also learn to read the horse’s body language, and identify signs of relaxation or stress to better respond to the horse’s needs. These skills can be translated into human interactions, strengthening relationships between students and their peers, teachers, and families.
Equine Assisted Services (EAS) and Providers:Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Adaptive/Therapeutic Unmounted Horsemanship
Equine-assisted Learning in Education
Equine-assisted Learning in Personal Development
3: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Green Chimneys Brewster Campus
1 Green Chimneys School
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Green Chimneys Brewster Campus
RELATIONSHIP: Other
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Equine-assisted Learning in Education
Equine-assisted Learning in Personal Development
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Green Chimneys is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), Council on Accreditation (COA), National Commission for the Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES), and Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH) Premier Accredited Center. Green Chimneys is approved/licensed by NYS Board of Social Welfare, NYS Department of Health, NYS Department of Social Services, NYS Education Department, NYS Office of Children and Family Services, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and US Fish & Wildlife Service.
Green Chimneys has licensed social workers, recreation therapists, occupational therapists, state certified teachers and administrators that accompany students to horse barn classes, after school programs and respite groups.
2 Miyako Kinoshita
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Green Chimneys Brewster Campus
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Adaptive/Therapeutic Unmounted Horsemanship
Equine-assisted Learning in Education
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
PATH - Advanced Therapeutic Riding Instructor. A PATH International Advanced Instructor is knowledgeable in horse mastership and understands disabilities and their relationships to therapeutic riding. He/she is able to demonstrate instruction that shows progression in riding skills in safe, challenging lessons.
M.Ed in Educational Studies
3 Valerie Castracucco
FACILITY PARTICIPATION:
Green Chimneys Brewster Campus
RELATIONSHIP: Employee
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Adaptive/Therapeutic Unmounted Horsemanship
DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
PATH Certification - Registered Therapeutic Riding Instructor & Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning (ESMHL)
BS in Animal Veterinary Sciences
Outreach and/or Public Education:
Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
Thousands of families, students and supporters visit throughout the year to enjoy events and activities for all ages. For over 50 years, Green Chimneys has blended great camp traditions with dynamic outdoor experiences to create exciting and educational activities full of memories to last a lifetime. Specific programs are described below under Programs/Activities that are not equine-related and/or involving animals other than equines.
Research/Medical Use of Equines:Our organization has never made, and would not ever consider making, equines available for research studies or medical training that involves invasive procedures and/or that which may cause pain or suffering to the equine.
Religious Affiliation:Our organization does not promote religious education, religious purposes, or a specific religious faith or use donations for religious education or religious purposes; require participants to be of a certain faith; require participation in religious, instruction, activities or services; or require participation in prayer, worship, religious instruction or other religious activities as a condition of receiving social or secular services offered.
Auction Donation:Our organization has never allowed, or would not consider allowing, an equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that would cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.
Our Programs/Activities that are not equine-related and/or involving animals other than equines:
Green Chimneys Therapeutic Day School and Residential Treatment Program
Green Chimneys’ accredited special education school serves approximately 300 students each year with emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges. Students are placed by home districts in either our therapeutic day school or residential treatment program when their needs cannot be met in a traditional classroom. Most children have a history of unsuccessful interventions and multiple psychiatric hospitalizations prior to arriving at Green Chimneys. About half of the students enrolled are day students, and the other half live on campus in private dorms. Students receive a highly structured and supportive program that’s individually tailored to their needs to help them achieve NYS public education standards, and lead productive, independent lives in the future. This program blends academics, psychological and medical care, animal-assisted therapy and nature-based interventions. Common diagnoses among our population are: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. The goal of our programs is to help students develop skills to cope with their challenges and increase self-esteem.
Sam and Myra Ross Farm and Wildlife Center (Brewster)
Nature-based therapy is the cornerstone of our therapeutic process at Green Chimneys. The Farm and Wildlife Center on campus serves as an extension of the classroom as we incorporate animal-assisted therapy and nature-based activities into our daily education curriculum and therapeutic practices. The center is home to over 300 animals including rehabilitated birds, mammals and reptiles, and domesticated farm animals such as horses, goats, sheep, and pigs. This program is designed to help students grow emotionally, physically, and mentally. Students develop social-emotional skills through meaningful interactions with the plants and animals that can help strengthen relationship building skills with other humans. They connect these skills through basic care, handling and training, and learning to understand animal behavior. Four farm-based classes are built into the education curriculum: garden, wildlife, equine, and teaching barn.
The wildlife center is licensed to provide rehabilitation to injured local species including birds of prey, songbirds, waterfowl, turtles, and small mammals. The goal is to nurse these animals back to health and release them into the wild as quickly as possible. The students in our programs assist staff through the entire process—from intake to rehabilitation to release—to learn compassion, encouragement, and the true meaning of stewardship. Animals that would not be successful back in the wild have a permanent home at Green Chimneys where students continue to give them the love and care they deserve. The Farm and Wildlife center is open to the public on the weekends for families in the broader community to enjoy.
Boni-Bel Farm and Country Store (Brewster)
Boni-Bel Farm is a working organic farm which produces vegetables, fruit, maple syrup, and honey for use in our kitchen, life skills classroom, and to be sold at our Country Store. Boni-Bel provides learning opportunities for all of our youth, particularly for our high school students enrolled in our Vocational Education Program.
The Sam and Myra Ross Research Institute at Green Chimneys (Brewster):
Dedicated to education and research on the human connection to animals and the natural world, the Institute researches, implements, and promotes a model for effective animal- and nature-based programming and treatment for children with special needs. Our Farm Internship Program provides 20 interns, 21 years of age and older, with an introduction to the theoretical and practical principles of incorporating animals, plants, and the natural world into the re-education, socialization, and treatment of children experiencing crisis in their lives.
Clearpool Environmental Education Center - Carmel, NY:
Clearpool is our second campus located on more than 350 acres of pristine woodland. In October 2011, Clearpool became the fourth Model Forest site established in the New York City Water Supply region. Model Forest sites are dedicated to supporting environmental education and encouraging stewardship of the Croton Watershed. We offer a Partner School Program for Environmental Education here, in which we partner with public schools from throughout New York Metropolitan area to provide their students with an innovative environmental science curriculum aligned with NYS STEM learning standards and reinforced with hands-on learning. Approximately 500 students participate in the Partner School Program each year. We also help teachers and students work on their communication, team building, and problem-solving skills utilizing our adventure education program.
Community-based Services
Our community-based services provide counseling, case management, free after school activities, prevention and intervention programs, transitional housing, and emergency shelter to local youth aged 10-20 and their families. The goal of our community-based programs is to connect families with necessary resources for their children, encourage conflict resolution, and help strengthen family communication and functioning. Around 500 children and teens receive services through this program annually at our Community Outreach Center and Arbor House Youth Shelter.
Special Events
Green Chimneys hosts family-friendly events throughout the year including Birds of Prey Day, two family volunteer days, and nature-focused educational programs at our Clearpool campus. Our farm and wildlife center is open to the public for free from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the weekends. These opportunities bring roughly 3000 people from the community to our campuses and to interact with our farm.
Nature’s Nursery
These preschool, kindergarten, before/after school programs and summer camps provide enriching, age-appropriate activities in our unique nature-based setting. Nature’s nursery takes place on our Brewster campus, separate from our therapeutic day school and residential treatment program.
Summer Day Camp at Brewster and Clearpool
Between our two campuses, we have 550 acres of forest, lakes, hiking trails, high ropes courses, gardens and a farm that make the ideal backdrop for summer camp. Roughly 850 children engage in outdoor learning and recreation over the 9-week camp season. We are dedicated to raising funds to provide scholarships to families in need.
Governance
Gr,een Chimneys Children's Services (1974) and Green Chimneys School (1947) are separate 501(c)(3) non-profit corporations partially funded by contracts with public agencies. The Friends of Green Chimneys, incorporated as its own 501(c)(3) non-profit in 1996, was established to raise additional needed funds for Green Chimneys programs. Edward W. Placke, Ed.D.is the Executive Director of Green Chimneys. Green Chimneys was founded in 1947 by the late Dr. Samuel Ross, Jr.
POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAINING
Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
The owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization when the equine is acquired from the equine's owner other than by seizure or by abandonment
If health records are not available or are out-of-date, the veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations
Not Checked:
A health certificate signed by a veterinarian and dated no more than seven days prior to arrival is provided to our organization either prior to or upon arrival of the equine attesting to the health status of the equine
Upon intake, the organization has the following quarantine policy in place:
The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine
at the facility for a prescribed period of time
Not Checked:
The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine off-site for a prescribed period of time
The equine is not quarantined
The typical length of quarantine is:
10 to 20 days
Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
A physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration is conducted by the veterinarian
A physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration is conducted by a trained staff member
A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned by a trained staff member following arrival
Photographs are taken of each equine following arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
An examination of hoof health is conducted by a farrier
An examination of dental health is conducted by a dentist or veterinarian
Not Checked:
A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned by a veterinarian
The equine is microchipped if the organization has the authority to microchip the equine and the equine has not been microchipped
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
A physical examination is conducted by the veterinarian at least annually
The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually by a trained staff member
Vaccinations are administered by the veterinarian at least annually, or with the veterinarian's approval, vaccinations are administered by a trained staff member at least annually
Equines at our facility may be treated by an:
Equine chiropractor
Equine acupuncturist
Equine massage therapist
Equine nutritionist
Not Checked:
The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually by the veterinarian
Photographs are taken of each equine monthly and kept with the equine's health records
Photographs are taken of each equine annually and kept with the equine's health records
Equines at our facility may be treated by an:
The organization has a procedure in place to assess equines for the following skills and behaviors:
Retrieval from a pasture/paddock
Leading with a halter and lead rope
Temperament, disposition and attitude, such as rated from very calm to very high spirited
Saddling
Bridling
Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
Tolerance to unusual objects and loud noises
Known vices, i.e., cribbing, biting, kicking, weaving, stall walking, etc
Grooming
Bathing
Clipping
Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time
Not Checked:
Lunging
Mounting and dismounting
Riding at the walk
Riding at the trot
Riding at the canter
Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
Jumping
Driving (Pulling a carriage)
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the weight-carrying or workload capabilities of any horse/equine that is ridden in our care, including training:
No equines are ridden; not applicable
Not Checked:
Our organization evaluates the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden at least annually and maintains a written record for each equine that is ridden that documents the results of each evaluation of the equine's weight-carrying and workload limitations
Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
The following variables are considered in determining the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden:
No equines are ridden; not applicable
Not Checked:
Equine age, weight, breed, body condition, fitness, balance, health and soundness
Equine conformation to include the top line, length of back, strength and width of loin, bone density (measured by the circumference of the cannon bone just below the knee)
Size, shape, condition and angle of the hooves
Participant weight, height, body proportions, balance, fitness and riding skills as well as behavioral issues and safety concerns
Weight and proper fit of the saddle and other equipment
Terrain and footing in the working environment
Duration and frequency of working sessions, as the frequency with which an equine is subjected to maximum weight carrying and/or workload
Nature and pace of work, repetitive or varied, radius of turns, degree of incline and regularity of footing when equine is subject to maximum weight-carrying capacity
Temperature and/or weather conditions
Seasonal impact on the equines' workload and weight-carrying capabilities and limitations
Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding):
Daily
POLICIES: BREEDING
The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:
Our organization does not conduct breeding of equines owned or under the care of our organization.
The main facility where our organization conducts its programs does NOT breed equines.
Not Checked:
One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including support facilities, breeds equines
One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including support facilities, are permitted to house stallions
POLICIES: EUTHANASIA
The organization has the following policies related to euthanasia:
Our organization will never have an equine euthanized for space
Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian if the equine is a threat to itself, other equines, or people
Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian after all reasonable treatment options have been explored
Disposal of the carcass is handled in accordance with local guidelines
Not Checked:
Our organization will never have an equine euthanized under any circumstances
The following are authorized to administer the procedure for your organization in accordance with state laws:
Veterinarian
Not Checked:
A certified euthanasia technician
Senior staff with appropriate training
Employee of animal control shelter or humane society with appropriate training
Veterinary student under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian
Not applicable. Our organization prohibits euthanasia under any circumstances
Additional information about our euthanasia policies and practices:
Euthanasia: Setting Some Guidelines
Developed by Michael Kaufmann for Green Chimneys and a presentation for the Global Association of Sanctuaries
1. As a center team, discuss equine quality of life, orthopedic surgery, colic surgery, and other costly medical procedures from a philosophical, emotional, and economic perspective BEFORE there is a medical crisis with a horse. Having this conversation can give everyone a sense of where they stand.
2. Have a meeting with your veterinarian and discuss your center equine care budget before there is a medical emergency. Let your vet see the financial capacity and limitations you may have. This will help them in guiding you through an emergency with realistic options.
3. Anticipate and prevent medical problems through good stewardship.
4. Involve your center board. The board and Executive Director can prepare for the financial ramifications of a potentially expensive equine medical procedure during the budget process. Is there an equine emergency fund set aside or does the budget anticipate emergencies and costly procedures?
5. Have a separate equine care advisory group. This group should consist of three of four people who have deep equine backgrounds, but are not directly involved in your center. When an equine medical crisis present itself and there is dispute over what should be done, presenting the case to this group and allowing them to give you their thoughts can give a center impartial feedback.
6. Know when it is time to discuss and when it is time to act. Ultimately one person has to make a decision no matter what the team feels. This can be a lonely and difficult spot to be in. But it is critical that there is someone, either the executive director or the program director who is willing and able to consider all options and input, but then steps up and just makes a decision in an expedient way on behalf of the horse and the center.
7. Euthanasia of a horse confronts people with their own emotions. Death, dying and loss can be difficult to experience and must be processed by each individual at your center. Separating the human reaction to euthanasia from what the horse may actually need is helpful. Having a mental health professional in your team who can help guide and identify feelings can be a support.
POLICIES: RE-HOMING
Re-homing Agreement not applicable.
Our organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.
Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization, and/or are no longer manageable:
The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.
Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
Equines may be returned to their owners
In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
In the case an equine is unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
The organization will accept financial responsibility for equines in the current care of the organization that need to be retired or are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization if all alternatives have been explored to find the equine an appropriate placement and space is not available for the equine to remain at the organization.
Not Checked:
Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
Equines may be sent to auction
If a suitable home cannot be located within 12 months, the equine may be euthanized
Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Since the transition to groundwork only, Green Chimneys will no longer be re-homing horses. There is no reason a horse would be unsuitable for our program without the riding requirement. Unless there is a "free-lease" agreement and horses are returned to their owners, horses will have a permanent home at Green Chimneys.
EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION
Our organization
DOES NOT CURRENTLY use satellite, suport, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.
Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs:
1
Green Chimneys Brewster Campus
400 Doansburg Road, Box 719 Brewster NY 10509
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 13
Total number of horses at this facility NOT INCLUDING those counted above: 0
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 22
Does your organization own, lease or use a part of this facility? Own
Provide the contact information for the individual or organization responsible for investigating
abuse in the county where the facility is located, including mailing address, email address, and phone information.
Putnam County Sheriff's Department, 3 County Center, Carmel, NY 10512
Does your organization conduct Equine Assisted Services (EAS) at this facility in accordance with the
EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS)? Yes
Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers AT THIS FACILITY, including instructors, specialists, therapists, counselors, coaches and/or facilitators (full-time, part-time, volunteer, independent contractors, and/or providers accompanying clients) that conduct Equine Assisted Services (EAS) in accordance with the
EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS) AT THIS FACILITY:
3Equine Assisted Service Providers Assigned to this Facility: (see Equine Assisted Service Provider Section below for details)
1. Green Chimneys School
2. Miyako Kinoshita
3. Valerie Castracucco
Veterinarian Information: Green Chimneys Brewster Campus (*Main) Currently operationalVeterinarian: Dr. Jenn Enger, DVM
Clinic Name: Mid-Hudson Vet
394 Route 52
Carmel NY 10512
Phone: 845-225-3100
Grounds: Green Chimneys Brewster Campus (*Main) Currently operationalTotal acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 25
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1 Run-in sheds: 12
Pastures: 2 Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 6
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 2 Covered Outdoor Rings: 0 Indoor Rings: 1
Are the organization's rules, restrictions and warnings (signage) conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations? Yes
Are the organization's emergency contacts, including veterinarian contact information, conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations? Yes
Are human and equine first aid kits easily accessible? Yes
Regarding all shelters where horses are housed
including run-in sheds:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the barn/structure(s) or individually assigned shelter locations where they are separated from other horses with a barrier? Yes How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled or restricted to these individually assigned shelter locations? 0;How often are the stalls/shelters cleaned? 6-7 Days a WeekDo all stalls/shelters allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around and provide protection from inclement weather (wind, sleet, rain, snow and extreme temperatures)? Yes Are stalls/shelters kept in good repair, with adequate ceiling height, and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris? Yes Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction? Yes Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to allow free flow of air to control temperature, and humidity, and to prevent air stagnation? Yes Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety in all areas of facility? Yes
Are fire prevention/protection measures (fire alarms, extinguishers and sprinkler systems) maintained and in good working order? Yes
Is there adequate lighting to ensure safety in all areas of facility? Yes
The following describes the pastures at this facility:
This facility has a written plan in place for pasture management, such as guidelines for seeding, fertilizing, irrigation, mowing, dragging, harrowing, manure removal, removal of debris, the control of poisonous plants, and a schedule for cleaning
A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for pasture management
All pastures are fenced to prevent escape or injury
Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
Pastures are rotated
Pastures have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
Not Checked:
This facility does not have pastures where equines can graze on pasture grass
Barbed wire is used for fencing
Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
This facility has a written plan in place for the maintenance of turnout areas, which includes a schedule for cleaning, manure removal, and dragging
A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for the maintenance of turnout areas
All turnout areas are fenced to prevent escape or injury
Turnout areas have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
Not Checked:
This facility does not have turnout areas
Barbed wire is used for fencing
Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
A security guard is present at night
There is a mechanism in place to monitor equines overnight
No Trespassing signs are posted
Hold Harmless signs are posted
Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
Entrance gates are locked at night
Visitors are only permitted at specific times
Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
The property is fitted with motion lights
The property is fitted with a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)
Not Checked:
The property owner, staff member or caretaker lives on the premises and ensures that public access is restricted and is responsible for the security of the facility and equines
By Appointment Only signs are posted.
The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service
The perimeter of the property is fully fenced
Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Green Chimneys Brewster Campus (*Main) 2026 and 2025 This section is required.Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
Onsite computer with onsite backup storage system
The following items are consistent with our feed management plan and practices:
The organization takes into consideration the equine's age, breed/type, condition, size, work level and any health issues in designing each equine’s individualized feeding plan including adequate natural forage and consults with the veterinarian as needed.
The organization determines supplement plans in consultation with a veterinarian
Staff and/or volunteers are trained in proper feed measurements and protocols and observed periodically to ensure they are feeding correctly
The feed chart is centrally located and updated as needed
The area(s) where hay, feed, grain, and supplements are stored are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals in rodent-proof and mold-proof containers and grain bins
Feed, supplements and hay types are clearly labeled
Water sources, i.e., buckets, troughs, automatic waterers, etc. are kept clean, free of contaminants, debris and chemicals, protected from weather and other animals, and be positioned or affixed to minimize spillage.
Medications are kept in a secure area
Not Checked:
Is clean, potable water available at all times for all equines? Yes
Hoof Care: How often is hoof care provided for each equine? Every 4-8 weeks and when an issue arises
Dental Care: How often is dental care provided for each equine? Annually and when an issue arises
Horse checks: How often are equines visually and physically checked by personnel at the facility? Every day or 6 days a week
Our organization has the following parasite and fly/insect control protocols in place, including remedies used to control flies and insects:
Our organization follows the parasite control guidelines of our veterinarian, including fecal testing and de-worming
Fly/Insect Control Remedies:
Fly parasites
Feed Through Products
Fly Traps and Tapes
Premise Sprays/Insecticides
Fly Spray Repellent
Fly Masks
Fly Sheets
Fans
Not Checked:
The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
Our organization follows the biosecurity guidelines of our veterinarian
Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
The organization has a written biosecurity plan
Staff and/or volunteers are trained in accordance with the
General Biosecurity Guidelines of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) and/or their veterinarian
The organization has a biosecurity practice in place whereby sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for after all healthy horses have been cared for to prevent crossover contamination.
Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
Hand sanitizers are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
Footbaths are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
Manure and bedding from sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is removed from the facility - not put in open air piles or spread on pastures
Quarantine areas, such as stalls, aisle ways, and paddocks, are cleaned (and needed, disinfected) after conclusion of the quarantine.
Trailers/vans used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cleaned and disinfected after each use and cleaning takes place away from where equines are sheltered
Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared and is cleaned of organic debris and disinfected after each use
Latex gloves, or equivalent gloves, are worn when working with sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
Not Checked:
Equines are not quarantined on arrival.
The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
Manure is stored in dumpster(s) which is a safe distance from equines and from where equines are sheltered
Manure is hauled, sold or given away
Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures
Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by the state, local authorities, and/or our organization's veterinarian
Not Checked:
Manure is piled in an area which is a safe distance from equines and from where equines are sheltered
Manure piles are covered
The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall/shelter location each day
Name plates are located on the stall/shelter location
Photos are located on the stall/shelter location
Equines wear halters with nametags
A notebook or binder with photos and information on each equine is easily accessible
A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos
Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions
Staff/volunteers are provided training on conformation, markings, colors, and breeds
Team leaders work with new staff/volunteers until they are able to identify the equines
Not Checked:
Equine photos and profiles are available on the website
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
All equines have specifically assigned apparel, equipment and tack (saddles/bridles if ridden) that is not shared
Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are fitted and utilized for each equine appropriate to the equine's needs and the weather conditions
Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are cleaned regularly as needed
No equines are ridden; saddles, bridles, etc. not applicable.
Not Checked:
Saddles are shared
Saddle pads are shared
Bridles are shared
Bits are shared
Blankets are shared
Sheets are shared
Turnout apparel is shared
Halters are shared
Riding Tack is always cleaned after each use
Riding Tack is always cleaned at least weekly
Riding Tack is cleaned only when needed
Riding Tack is inspected for overall working condition before each use by trained personnel
Riding Tack is assessed for fit before each use by trained personnel
Riding Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's body condition changes
Riding Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's disposition changes
This facility enlists the services of a professional saddle fitter at least once a year
Assigned riding tack is clearly labeled
Helmets are shared
Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
Helmets are replaced after a fall
Helmets are replaced at least every five years.
Emergency Preparedness: Green Chimneys Brewster Campus: *Main This section is required.
The following plans, policies, and procedures are in place at the facility to handle emergencies and address weather related issues, fire safety procedures, and/or any additional hazardous scenarios the facility could potentially experience:
The facility owns or has access to a generator
The facility maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
The facility maintains workers' compensation insurance
The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)
Not Checked:
The written EPP addresses the following areas:
Local fire department and/or the state's emergency planning department procedures
Medical emergencies for clients, staff, and volunteers
Medical emergencies for equines
Human and Equine Evacuation plans
Power outages
Fire
Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
Active Shooter and/or Terrorist attacks
Protocols to notify emergency personnel
Building/facility exit plans
Not Checked:
The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
Smoking is strictly prohibited
NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled
Permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled are kept free of trash, cleaning rags, and other flammable items
Aisles and doorways are kept clear
Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used
Not Checked:
How often are the following checked or performed to ensure applicable working condition?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: AnnuallySmoke detectors are checked: QuarterlyFence lines are checked: DailyTurnout Areas are checked: DailySprinkler systems are checked: AnnuallyFire drills are conducted: MonthlyReview of safety protocols with staff are conducted: MonthlyReview of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: MonthlyThe Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: AnnuallyFunctional Equine Transportation: 4= Onsite: 3 (1 + 2) + Offsite: 1
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
1 Owned onsite
6-horse van/trailer with truck:
2 Access onsite but not owned 1 Access offsite;
