Nonprofit ranch needs storm repair help

A recent storm downed several trees at Runnin' WJ Ranch south of Texarkana, Texas.
A recent storm downed several trees at Runnin' WJ Ranch south of Texarkana, Texas.

Runnin' WJ Ranch is asking for assistance with repairs after a recent thunderstrom damaged the therapeutic ranch south of Texarkana, Texas.

No clients, workers or animals were injured in the storm, but ranch executive director Sam Clem said it will cost about $50,000 just to repair the barn and a dry-lot area.

"Insurance won't cover it because it's an outside barn," Clem said.

The ranch's needs include monetary donations to purchase building materials and volunteers to work on construction and clean-up crews.

A significant part of the restoration is the removal of fallen trees.

"We could use 25 men or ladies with chainsaws," Clem said about removing the downed red oaks, which are up to 4 feet in diameter.

"We have about 10 large ones (down) and maybe 50 with tree limbs broken that need to be cut off," Clem said.

Despite the damage, Runnin' WJ remains up and running.

"We did not lose power because of our solar array. Thank God all of our horses are OK. The fencing that is down is internal fencing, so no horses got out," Clem said.

To volunteer or donate, call Clem at 903-838-3223 or 903-244-1397.

Upcoming Events