Our Roots
The Root Farm began with a passion for horses and a commitment to helping people of all abilities grow and thrive. Founded by Dr. Alice Root in 1997, what started as a small equine therapy center has grown into a dynamic farm offering a wide range of agricultural, recreational, and therapeutic experiences.
Located in Litchfield, New York, The Root Farm continues to provide a welcoming space for all visitors to live, learn, and grow.
Our Mission
We believe that everyone, regardless of ability, should have the opportunity to connect with nature, challenge themselves, and learn new skills. Our mission is to provide transformative experiences through agriculture, adventure, and equine therapy.
Our Commitment to Accessibility
We are committed to welcoming guests of all ages and abilities in a safe, inclusive, and fun environment. To ensure that all guests have the opportunity for a transformative experience, we offer a variety of services to meet the needs of our visitors, including:
- Universal design of our facility
- Accessible recreation activities
- An accessible equine center, including a lift system that moves our riders smoothly and efficiently on and off of a horse
- Allowing service animals in public areas of our facility
- Guided tours for the visually impaired (please call in advance to schedule)
Meet our Animals
From goats to chickens, our farm is home to some big personalities and wonderful friends. Get to know our animals and see how they contribute to life on the farm.
Our History
1990s
Dr. Alice Root’s life-long love and respect for horses led her to volunteer with Upstate Caring Partners’ horseback riding program, where she discovered a passion for equine-assisted therapy.
1997
Dr. Root established the Mud Creek Farm in Vernon Center, New York. The farm invited children with disabilities and at-risk youth to interact with animals and participate in therapeutic riding and hippotherapy sessions. Mud Creek Farm’s waiting list grew as quickly as its program offerings.
2004
Mud Creek Farms moved to a bigger, more accessible location in Verona, New York. At this new location, Alice decided to honor her family’s legacy by establishing our facility’s current namesake, The Root Farm. The new location allowed us to expand our services and opportunities, including adaptive vaulting, an integrated competitive vaulting team, and adaptive carriage driving.
2014-Today
In a full-circle move, Alice joined forces with Upstate Caring Partners to expand Root Farm’s services once again, moving to our current 100-acre location in the Town of Litchfield in Herkimer County, NY. Today, Root Farm provides not only equine opportunities, but agriculture and recreational programs as well.
There’s always something happening at The Root Farm.
Whether you’re interested in our farm-fresh products, team-building activities, or equine programs, we welcome visitors of all ages and abilities.
