HomeAgricultureRomelia Farms Wildlife Preserve Faces Closure Amid Financial and Regulatory Challenges, Seeks...

Romelia Farms Wildlife Preserve Faces Closure Amid Financial and Regulatory Challenges, Seeks Community Support

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Romelia Farms Wildlife Preserve, home to nearly 150 rescued animals, is fighting for survival after facing a series of financial and regulatory setbacks that have forced it to temporarily shut down. The wildlife preserve, which has served as a sanctuary for a diverse group of animals, is now in urgent need of help from the community to continue caring for its animal residents.

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Financial Struggles and Rising Costs

Since March 2023, Romelia Farms has been battling rising costs due to skyrocketing mortgage interest rates and increased operational expenses. Jeremy and Lina Graves, the owners of the farm, poured their personal savings into keeping the farm afloat, but the combination of rising costs for animal feed, utilities, and labor has left the farm in financial peril. Despite their efforts, the farm is now facing potential foreclosure.

“We’ve put everything we have into saving the farm, but the increased interest rates and operational costs have made it impossible to continue without help,” the Graveses shared in a recent post.

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USDA Licensing and Compliance Issues

In addition to financial pressures, Romelia Farms has encountered challenges in obtaining a USDA Class C license, which is necessary for operating a public wildlife preserve. Although the farm has been in compliance with animal welfare standards, the USDA recently cited the farm for a violation related to the lack of a six-foot perimeter fence around the 27-acre property.

Despite their efforts to raise funds and build the required fence, the estimated cost of the project has been prohibitive. Without the USDA license, the farm is unable to host tours and events that were critical to its income stream. The closure of the farm to the public has further strained its ability to maintain operations and care for the animals.

USDA and DOJ Sanctions

As of late August, the USDA referred Romelia Farms to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), leading to additional sanctions. The DOJ has forced the farm to rehome some of its animals and shut down all visitor activities, including popular events such as their annual pumpkin patch and Halloween-themed Tractor Treat event.

“This has been devastating. We’ve done everything we can to comply with regulations and ensure the well-being of our animals, but the costs and barriers have become insurmountable,” the Graveses stated.

A Plea for Community Support

Romelia Farms is now turning to its supporters for help in this critical time. The farm is asking for donations to help cover the costs of feed, water, veterinary care, and the wages of its dedicated staff. They have launched a fundraising campaign and are asking for any level of support, even as little as $5, to help keep the farm operational.

“We made a promise to fight for these animals, and we are not giving up,” said the Graveses. “Now, we need our community to stand with us and help us continue our mission.”

Those interested in supporting Romelia Farms can donate through their campaign at GiveButter. The farm is also encouraging supporters to share their story and raise awareness of their plight.

A Long Road Ahead

Romelia Farms has become a beloved part of the community, with many visitors coming to know and love the animals who call the farm home. While the future of the preserve remains uncertain, Jeremy and Lina Graves remain committed to doing everything they can to save their sanctuary.

“Every dollar, every share, and every show of support means the world to us and our animals,” the Graveses wrote in their heartfelt appeal. “We won’t stop fighting for them.”

For more information on how to support Romelia Farms, visit their website or follow them on social media for updates.


Tags: Romelia Farms, Wildlife Preserve, Animal Rescue, USDA, Community Support, Financial Crisis, USDA Sanctions, Fundraising Campaign.

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