This year, the Humboldt County Fair saw two horse euthanizations, raising Ferndale's total to 24 since 1994. The average racing fatality rate is 1.32 per 1,000 starts, but Ferndale's exceeds five times that. The California Horse Racing Board is investigating, emphasizing horse welfare. Despite industry struggles, Ferndale’s revenues are rising, with over $1 million in purses and 240 competing horses. New regulations will limit older horses from racing.
