When the St. Johns River began swelling last Friday, Harmony Farms – a local equine rescue and boarding facility in Brevard County – found its driveway, arena and most of its pasture underwater. Executive director Jeanine Allen said the rising water has left the farm’s eleven horses with only small patches of dry land to move about.
Horses confined but healthy
“So far they’re happy and they’re healthy. They’re in their stalls. We are working closely with our vet to minimize their stress,” Allen told reporters. The farm’s veterinary team is monitoring the animals closely, ensuring they have adequate feed, water and shelter despite the cramped conditions.
Rapid water rise creates urgency
According to staff, the river rose two feet in a single day, quickly submerging the farm’s infrastructure. “Our driveway is underwater. Our arena is underwater. Our pasture is underwater,” Allen said, noting that the farm sits atop septic tanks, raising concerns about potential contamination from the stagnant water.
Community volunteers step up
Local residents have responded in force. “They are our saving grace. We have our regular volunteers who have helped us for years and now we have dozens in the community who have stepped up,” Allen said. Volunteers are delivering supplies, walking and grooming the horses, and cleaning stalls, providing a vital lifeline as the farm navigates the crisis.
Exploring relocation options
Allen explained that moving the horses off‑property is being considered, but logistical challenges remain. “We are looking at availability to move the horses off property which is another feat in itself,” she said, acknowledging the difficulty of finding suitable temporary housing for large animals during a flood.
River crest expected Sunday
Officials predict the St. Johns River will not reach its peak until Sunday, meaning the farm could face continued high water for several more days. “My biggest fear is that their projected crest continues to move forward. It was supposed to be last weekend and then Wednesday, Saturday and now Sunday. Until it crests and starts to decrease we kind of have our hands tied,” Allen added.
Looking ahead
Harmony Farms remains focused on the welfare of its horses while awaiting the river’s decline. The farm’s leadership urges anyone able to assist – whether by donating supplies, offering temporary shelter for the animals, or simply volunteering time – to contact the farm directly. As the community continues to rally, the farm hopes the combined effort will see the horses safely through the flood and back to full pasture once the waters recede.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
