Castle Rock Farm in Pennsylvania has been awarded the prestigious Robert N. Clay Conservation Award. The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association will celebrate national award winners during its awards dinner on September 7 at Fasig-Tipton in Lexington. Ahead of the event, five national recipients have been announced, and BloodHorse Daily is featuring profiles of these honorees throughout the week.
Today, we shine a spotlight on Castle Rock Farm, the recipient of the Robert N. Clay Conservation Award. The Equine Land Conservation Resource co-presents this award.
Many farm owners eventually face a challenging decision regarding the future of their land. Peter Giangiulio and his sister Barbara Geraghty from Castle Rock Farm in Unionville, PA, have recently navigated this tough choice, aspiring to set a positive example for others.
As an attorney, Giangiulio meticulously examined all options for the future of their farm. Together with his wife Stephanie and brother-in-law Bill, the decision was made to preserve their 113-acre property in 2022 through Natural Lands, a non-profit committed to conserving open spaces and connecting communities with nature in eastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey.
"You have a responsibility to the land and the animals," Giangiulio stated. "You aren't losing anything by taking this step; instead, you're gaining so much."
Utilising a conservation easement — a land protection instrument — Natural Lands has ensured that the property will remain undeveloped, preserving the stunning pastoral views of the Brandywine Creek Valley. While Castle Rock Farm can still be sold, it cannot be developed.
"You develop a deep affection for the land and your neighbours, which ultimately holds greater value than any financial gain," Giangiulio reflected.
The Brandywine River flows through part of the property and serves as a popular destination for local outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities like kayaking and fishing.
"There’s an inherent value in that experience that cannot be replicated," Giangiulio remarked. "We chose this path for the right reasons. I take great pride in my family and my wife for recognising the importance of preserving green space for the community and its users."
Giangiulio's bond with the land is longstanding; he has worked with horses there since he was eight years old. He also feels a strong sense of duty toward his horses.
Both Giangiulio and Geraghty carry on their father's legacy and passion for horses through the ownership and breeding of Thoroughbreds. Giangiulio is a former president of the Pennsylvania Horse Breeders Association and currently serves on its board. Additionally, he is vice president of Ryerss Farm for Aged Equines, a retirement facility for horses of all breeds in Pottstown, PA. After concluding his 54th foaling season, Giangiulio has developed a profound attachment to his horses, utilising his farm as a sanctuary for them in their later years.
"What happens to your friends if you develop the land?" he inquired rhetorically, regarding the decisions at hand. "Trust was a significant factor in this choice."
In addition to his family, Giangiulio expressed gratitude toward his farm manager, June Hillman, for her invaluable support during her 29 years of service.
"This is a team effort," Giangiulio emphasised. "Everyone plays an equally important role."