Rising diesel prices and an ongoing drought in Georgia have significantly increased hay costs for Pegasus Riding Academy, a therapeutic horseback riding center in Savannah serving children with special needs. Hay prices have surged from $7 to as high as $14 per bale, with the academy recently spending around $400 on 42 bales to feed their horses for less than two weeks. The drought has also forced the farm supplying the hay to rely on last year’s dry hay, which requires soaking to make it easier for the horses to chew.

Despite these challenges, Pegasus Riding Academy remains optimistic as it approaches its busy summer camp season starting in June, which is expected to help offset rising expenses. The center is actively seeking volunteers for the camps, aiming to maintain its services and support for children with special needs during this critical time.