Welcome to Cedar Valley Stables!
Let's Ride
Cedar Valley Stables was hit hard by the floods in June 2008. As a result, we are in the early stages of rebuilding. However, we will try to provide regular updates here.
We Need YOUR Help
The damage to to The Ranch is extensive. We're
assessing our losses now but the damage extended throughout all
of our buildings (including our homes). The animals were
safely evacuated and are being cared for in a temporary shelter.
Check out our Flickr Photo Album at
http://www.flickr.com/groups/cedarvalleystables/ or by clicking the picture
to the right.
Without your help, our future is
uncertain. Below, is a list of our immediate and future
needs. If you can help with any of these things (or in
some other way that we haven't thought of yet) please contact
Nancy at 1 (319) 360-1524 or The Ranch at 1(563) 886-3752.
Future or Upcoming Needs
Where is Cedar Valley Stables
Cedar Valley Stables is located along the Cedar River in Eastern Iowa.
View Larger Map
Ranch Facts
Started in 1969 by Richard Gaul with 8 horese.
Once a Girl Scout Camp, Cedar Valley Stables has been
teaching children (and adults) across the country and world
about horses and the outdoors.
Willard and Jo Bennett moved to The Ranch in 1994.
Shortly thereafter, Rich and Nancy Goodale joined them.
Together they grew Cedar Valley Stables into the place we
know and love.
Famous Phrases - Rich
If you've spent any time at The Ranch, you've heard one of
Rich's famous phrases:
- Gotta get my ducks in a row
.
- Did you hold your tongue right?
- The more the merrier
- Speed limit’s 5 MPH
- I’m going’ mushroom/arrowhead hunting
- I’ll fix it with duct tape
- Princess doesn’t want to listen
- Renee
Ranch Facts
Rich & Nancy's home was built in 1994, high above the
Cedar River. This was the first step in achieving
Nancy's dream of working alongside her father and growing
the Boots and Saddles Summer Camp for girls. Her dream
also includes finding financial support to open the camp to
girls who would not otherwise have the chance to attend.
What Happened at The Ranch
Events :
- On June 9th we started our first week of Boots & Saddle
Camp
- June 10th we, along with many throughout Eastern Iowa,
began preparing for the Cedar River to rise beyond
previously seen highs.
- June 10th, parents were notified that we would not be
able to continue with camp, for the safety of the girls and
the horses. Some girls were able to go home that
night. Those who remained camped out in Jo's house,
where they stayed high and dry.
- June 12th we began moving everything out of the lower
level of Jo's house. The water was over the lower rail
(by the Lodge). It rained intermittently throughout
the day.
- June 13th, we continued to move what we could to higher
ground, including horses. Only after we had done all
we could for the horses and camp, did we turn our attention
to Nancy & Rich's house - better late than never.
- June 18th we were able to go back to the Ranch and
better assess the damage and destruction left after the
water receded.
- By June 20th we were if full recovery mode, where we
continue to operate today.
