Transition Acres offers unique equestrian experiences near Tavistock

Transition Acres owners Alisha Wilson and her family are dedicated to rescuing horses, providing equestrian programs and helping preserve the critically endangered Ojibwe Spirit Horse. The family-run farm, located south of Tavistock, will offer pony rides and demonstrations featuring the rare breed during this year's Tavistock Fall Fair. Gary West photo

By Gary West

Just south of Tavistock, Transition Acres is offering visitors more than horseback riding. The family-run farm is also helping preserve one of Canada's rarest horse breeds while creating opportunities for people of all ages to connect with horses and Indigenous culture.

Located on Maplewood Side Road, Transition Acres is owned and operated by Alisha and Kevin Wilson, along with their children, Nicholas, 19, and Lindsey, 17, who are both actively involved in the family's equestrian business.

The farm is home to 12 rescue horses, including Quarter Horses, off-track Thoroughbreds and three Ojibwe Spirit ponies.

The Ojibwe Spirit Horse is considered one of Canada's rarest horse breeds, with fewer than 200 believed to remain worldwide.

Alisha Wilson said the breed holds a unique place in Canadian history.

"They are the only horses proven to have been here before the European settlers brought their own horses," she said.

Now in its fifth year of operation, Transition Acres offers riding lessons, summer camps, seniors' programs, team-building activities, date nights and its award-winning Cowgirl Kickback evenings for women.

The farm also works closely with local Indigenous knowledge keeper Eric G. Martin, who hosts monthly smudging ceremonies and land-based learning opportunities at the property.

Transition Acres will be part of this year's Tavistock Fall Fair, where it will offer pony rides from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 12, for visitors with fair admission wristbands.

The family will also present three demonstrations featuring its Ojibwe Spirit ponies during the fair. Martin will be on-site Sunday, Sept. 13, at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. to share information about the rare breed and Indigenous culture. Visitors are also invited to meet the ponies between presentations.

Transition Acres is a registered non-profit organization dedicated to education, equine experiences and preserving the critically endangered Ojibwe Spirit Horse.

For more information, contact Wilson at 519-608-4409, text the same number or email alisha@transitionseq.ca.