The farm further provides an environment for 4-H and Future Farmers of America activities.  With a herd of sheep, pigs, goats, chickens, and ducks, the farm is an ideal place for children to learn about the rural lifestyle and the animals that play a role in it.  Ann and Dale are passionate about providing a safe and comfortable learning and working environment on the farm, as well as teaching children the value of hard work, responsibility, and respect for animals.

At Mesa Farm, located on Muschopauge Road in Rutland, MA, Ann Tripp and Dale Perkins are providing a home-away-from-home for Elizabeth and Samuel Tripp. The primary enterprise of the 80-acre diversified farm is the equestrian program, with Dale, a certified riding instructor, teaching riding and vaulting skills to traditional students and those on the mental health end of the therapeutic riding industry. Students can participate in a regular weekly schedule or a week-long Summer program in July and August. 

The farm is also the home stable of the Dale Perkins Horse Show, which performs at area fairs and festivals. The show horses also provide labor on the farm, such as garden cultivation, occasional logging, and hay and sleigh rides. 4-H and Future Farmers of America activities are also encouraged, with a herd of sheep, pigs, goats, chickens, and ducks available for children to learn about the rural lifestyle and the animals that play a role in it. Ann and Dale are passionate about providing a safe and comfortable learning and working environment for children, as well as teaching them the value of hard work, responsibility, and respect for animals.

Horse back

Affordable

• Basic seat riding lessons: Dale provides lessons for all ages; beginners and on; English and on occasion, Western.

• Interactive Vaulting Lessons: Vaulting is often referred to as “gymnastics on horseback”.  This is an excellent team-building activity and Dale specializes in group sessions which help the students on the cognitive, social, and physical level.

• Week-long Summer Riding Program: Monday through Friday mornings most weeks in July and August.  Includes traditional riding, interactive vaulting, and other farm activities.

• Horse Training: Dale occasionally takes in a horse for training.  Ideally, the owner participates in the training sessions.

Riding Programs

• Day Visits for Groups:  Take a farm tour and learn about the various land and livestock enterprises.  Optional activities include a hay ride, horseback ride, or a session related to a specific subject on equine training and management, grass-fed lamb production, livestock, land, or “green” technology (solar, composting, silvopasture, organic gardening).  Acts from the Dale Perkins Horse Show are also possible. 

• Farm to Table Dinner: We host a biennial fundraising dinner for City to Saddle in odd-numbered years.

• Vaulting Competition: Next date to be determined.