Q. What do you charge for board?

Board ranges from $750-$850 a month for stalls. If you choose to go on a full service package with a trainer, those costs will be customized and provided upon request.

Q. What do you charge for lessons?

Lessons are either taught as private, semi-private (2 riders) or group (3-4 riders). You also have the option to lesson for one hour or 1/2 hour. We also offer lesson packages where you buy ten and get one free ranging from $300 - $600.

1/2 Hour Private $40.00
1 Hour Private $60.00

1/2 Hour Semi-Private $30.00
1 Hour Semi-Private $50.00

1/2 Hour Group $25.00
1 Hour Group $40.00

Q. What disciplines do you teach?

Our areas of expertise include Hunter/Jumper, Western Reining and Cutting, Equitation, Dressage and Classical Spanish Riding. Our programs are open to all breeds.

Q. What equipment will I need for lessons?

You will need a water bottle, jeans or breeches, boots with a heel and minimal tread, and an ASTM-SEI approved equestrian helmet. Bike helmets are prohibited. School helmets are provided although most students choose to purchase their own.

Q. What are your hours?

We try our best to be flexible, so please call and we will find a time that works for you. Please realize that after school hours and Saturdays can be very busy, so spaces may be limited. We do have lighted arenas, so it is possible to schedule night lessons.

Q. Is there an age limit for students?

We teach students ages 7 through adult.

Q. Are lessons private or in a group?

In order to progress safely in a timely fashion, all new students will be placed in private lessons. When the student is confident and controlled enough, he or she may join a group with students of similar age and ability. Groups will be no larger than 4 students unless there is more than one instructor present. It is recommended that show students ride in group lessons to gain confidence, independence and skill in managing arena traffic.

Q. If I cancel a lesson, will I still be charged?

No. We do however ask for you to contact us as soon as you know you will not be able to attend. We will do our best to reschedule a make up lesson at the trainer's earliest convenience. The phone number for cancellations and rescheduling is (973)697-1149.

Q. What if the weather is bad?

Unless you receive a call, your lesson will not be cancelled. We have the facilities to teach ground as well as mounted lessons, and we encourage students to understand that there is more to horsemanship than simply riding. Ground lessons will also occasionally be integrated into the lesson program even without foul weather if the instructor deems necessary, and cover everything from equine management skills to show grooming to basic veterinary care. It should also be noted that the first lesson for new students is always a ground lesson so that they learn to tack up as independently as possible and gain confidence around the horses.

Q. What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, check and VISA/MC. You may pay by the lesson or prepay for a block of lessons, but please remember that if you are not up to date on payments we cannot schedule any more lessons until the balance is paid in full. Checks can be made payable to West Milford Equestrian Center.

Q. Can I show?

WMEC is for both recreational and competitive students. If you are interested in showing, talk to your instructor and he/she will help you decide if showing is for you. We compete at local schooling shows as well as A-rated shows. Please inquire about specific showing costs/fees.

Q. What will I need if I want to show?

If you are showing hunter, you must have breeches, a show shirt, a hunt coat, a hair net, gloves and a velvet helmet or helmet cover. Field boots are highly recommended and required for rated shows.

If you are showing western, you will need show pants, a slinky and vest or a show shirt, belt, gloves, a western hat or velvet helmet cover, a hair net and western boots. Chaps are highly recommended and required for rated shows. You will also need a saddle blanket to match your ensemble.

Q. Can I show a school horse?

School horses are available for students to show, but please keep in mind that you may not be able to compete at every show if you are using a school horse as everyone deserves to get a chance to get out in the ring when they are ready, and our horses can only do so much. If you are planning on competing frequently and at higher levels, we can help you find a horse to lease or purchase.

Q. I think I am ready to purchase a horse. Can you help me?

For an industry standard 10% commission, WMEC can help you find the right horse to suit your needs.

-Is trailering available?

We can accommodate local travel. Rates vary, so please call for more info.

-I would like to place my horse in training with WMEC. What does this entail?

WMEC will customize a month by month training program to suit both you and your horse's needs. Whether you choose a package of training sessions (Classical Spanish Riding Excluded) together with riding lessons for you, or solely training sessions for your horse, we can help. Our training options cover everything from light schooling/exercise sessions with your equine companion to preparation for A class competition for your show horse in all of the disciplines listed above. Please call for more details on starting your horse on the road to success with WMEC.