Equestrian Bridges receives land donation from Hunt family for new facility in Lowell
by January 4, 2022 9:06 am 2,277 views
The nonprofit group Equestrian Bridges in Rogers has accepted a sizable land donation that’s part of an expansion project.
According to a deed filed Dec. 21 at the Benton County Courthouse, the J.B. and Johnelle Hunt family donated approximately 110 acres to Equestrian Bridges. The property is west of Old Wire Road in Lowell, south of First Tee — Northwest Arkansas. The land has been in the Hunt
family since 1985 for their cattle operation.
The late Johnnie Bryan “J.B.” Hunt and his wife, philanthropist Johnelle Hunt, the chairwoman of Hunt Ventures in Rogers, co-founded Lowell-based carrier J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc.
With the help of horses, Equestrian Bridges’ mission is to foster an innovative therapeutic experience both in the saddle and on the ground for individuals, families and communities.
Executive director Shanna Dozier said the land will be developed for a riding and wellness center to improve mental health and wellness for Northwest Arkansas families, which will include trail rides, equestrian activities, riding lessons, and a therapeutic environment through equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT).
She did not disclose a timeline to develop the land. According to the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Dozier told Equestrian Bridges supporters about the project this past May at the ninth annual Mini Derby and Kentucky Derby watch party at its headquarters in Rogers.
According to the newspaper, Dozier said the nonprofit is launching “its largest fundraising campaign” to build the center.