By Julia Train
When you arrive at Rockin’ J Ranch in Egg Harbor City, you’ll be greeted by Scrappy, Scooter and Dally, the three dogs who spend their days on the land.
The pups, two of which are Australian shepherds, belong to Brian Johnson and his wife Morgan.
The Johnsons purchased half of the 40-acre property that was once a sweet potato farm in January 2020.
According to Brian, the transition didn’t require too much work, besides building fields, fences and sheds and ensuring proper drainage. The sandy soil, once ideal for sweet potatoes, also proved to give the ranch an advantage.
“The land is on an angle, which helps with drainage,” Brian, 26, noted. “We don’t have to deal with much mud, thanks to the retention pond that catches excess water.”
Brian said their main goal is to ensure a safe environment for their horses. In order to do that, they had to dig down 3 inches to remove rocks and dirt, then use a sifter to clean the sand in the ranch’s arenas and horse pens.
“Rocks can cause injuries to horses, so it’s crucial to keep them out,” he said.
The couple started with six horses and now manages a total of about 25, including both their own and those they board, or house and take care of for others.
They also have plans to expand further, potentially adding an indoor arena and a residence on the property.
Brian, originally from Las Vegas, transitioned from a college rodeo scholarship at Tarleton State University in Texas to managing Rockin’ J Ranch.
He and Morgan met while Brian was studying animal and equine science at the university and Morgan was a veterinary technician attending Texas Christian University.
Their shared passion for rodeo and ranching led them to New Jersey for an internship, where they met their two business partners who helped them get their business started.
One of the ranch’s standout features is its focus on Western riding, a rarity in the region.
“We’re one of the few Western riding facilities within an hour of here,” Brian explained. “Most places focus on English riding, like jumping, but we specialize in Western disciplines such as roping, barrel racing and rodeo events.”
The Johnsons are also working on a partnership in the next few years with the neighboring Christmas tree farm that takes up the other half of the 40-acre lot.
As part of the mutually beneficial relationship, Rockin’ J Ranch will help fertilize the trees with manure and people will be able to take a trail ride to pick out a tree.
Brian and Morgan are also exploring ways to incorporate gardening and farm-to-table practices into their offerings, such as community garden beds and selling fresh eggs from their chickens.
Rockin’ J Ranch is more than just a horse facility; it’s a community center with a small petting zoo. Visitors can interact with various farm animals, including goats, sheep, chickens and alpacas. Brian and Morgan aim to make the ranch a hub for local activities and education.
The ranch also hosts numerous events throughout the year, with their biggest upcoming event being the Fall Fest Oct. 12. This festival will feature around 60-70 vendors, food trucks, trunk or treat and what they call a “fun show” that highlights the ranchers’ rodeo skills.
“These events are a way to engage with the community and showcase what we do,” Brian said.
Julia is a recent Rider University graduate, where she studied multiplatform journalism and social media strategies. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, trying new coffee shops, photography and the beach. She can be reached at juliatrainmedia@gmail.com or connect with her on Instagram @juliatrain
