Restoration Project

For more than 70 years, Marin Stables has served as one of Marin County’s most important public riding facilities and gateways to the MMWD open space and trails. But now many of the historic Stable buildings are nearing the end of their useful lives and need to be replaced or repaired. A comprehensive renovation plan is being prepared and will be implemented over a period of approximately 10 years. One of our primary missions is to raise the financing required for this project and to oversea the implementation of the necessary renovations.

Our Restoration Project will preserve the site’s historic legacy for present and future generations. It is a legacy that links the past with the future, the urban/suburban community with the natural watershed, and people with horses. It is a legacy and tradition of horses as healers, transforming those who visit and interact with them into people with happier, healthier states of mind, body and spirit.

The Marin Stables Restoration Project will be accomplished in three phases:

Phase I: Covered Riding Area Restoration – Structural retrofit, LEED roofing, energy efficient lighting, and new arena sand. This work is being done in three phases: Phase I--replacement of roof trusses [Completed Summer 2009]; Phase II-replacement of 8 support columns and installation of related bracing and replacement of side rails and gates [Completed September 2010] ; Phase III--replacement of 18 support column, and installation of related bracing and shear walls.

Phase II: Comprehensive Master Plan Development – Storm water management plan, creek restoration plan, site improvements, building improvements, program and community classroom development.

Phase III: Implementation – Design, Permitting, and Restoration of Stable Buildings

Restoration Program Progress:

We are delighted to report that past donations allowed us to complete the first two phases of our Arena restoration program. The Arena is once again structurally sound for temporary public use for riding and our equine therapy and other community programs, pending the completion of fund raising for the remaining restoration work.

Covered Riding Arena Restoration Phase I Now Complete! We purchased and installed new steel roof trusses.

Covered Riding Arena Restoration Phase II Now Complete! We replaced 8 key support columns and installed cross-bracing and knee bracing and side panels.

Help Us Take the Next Step

Join our community of supporters to ensure that Marin Stables survives and thrives for the sake of present and future generations.

The Arena has 26 support columns. We have already replaced 8 of the columns but we must replace the remaining 18 and install cross-bracing, knee-bracing, and sheer wall. Based on the contractor’s estimate and progress so far, we estimate that each column will cost about $4,000 to install.

Your help is urgently needed. Please help us take this next big step toward completion. If you alone, or together with your friends and family, can donate $4,000 for a “column replacement” we will install a brass nameplate on it with (1) your name, (2) your group or company name, or (3) the name of someone whom you wish to honor who feels a special connection to horses or trails. Even if you cannot “buy a column” any contribution you can make will replace the arena. Every donation we receive will help us reach our goal of completing the arena replacement.

Your Donations are Tax Deductible

We are a 501(c) (3) public benefit corporation, so donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Please drop by the Stables, take a walk on the trails and reconnect to nature and horses. It will always lift your spirits, clear your mind and restore your energy.

The entire Board of Directors thanks you for your continued support and donations to save Marin Stables!