A LITTLE ABOUT THE FARRIER

Chas Biederman CF

Since moving to Portland, Oregon, in 2016, I’ve had the chance to work with a diverse group of equines that include shod and barefoot performance horses. Currently, I work on mostly show and lesson horses for trainers in the Portland metropolitan area.

I first started working with equines with Warren Matthews, the owner of the Harney County Mule Company. I rode over 100 green mules for his company and packed even more. He also gave me my first lessons in shoeing. After earning a bachelors of science degree in biology from Warren Wilson College, I landed a job with the Bureau of Land Management. Eventually, I became an animal caretaker at the Wild Horse Corrals in Burns, Oregon. At the facility, I ensured over 700 mustangs’ needs were met. The BLM then promoted me into the range rider position where I rode and packed horses and mules to maintain wilderness fence. Later, I would pack and shoe horses and mules for the National Park Service in Yosemite Valley.

After going back to school to complete a nine month course with Walla Walla Community College’s Farrier Science Program, I developed a style of shoeing focused on keeping horses sound. The skills that I learned in Walla Walla were further honed by working with other farriers. I also found the process of becoming a Certified Farrier (CF) through the American Farrier’s Association helpful in improving my forging skills, expanding my knowledge, and giving me confidence to deliver good work in a highly stressful setting. I do my best to continue my education by attending farrier clinics and reading research-based literature. It’s a fascinating trade, and I feel blessed every time I can bring the best out of a horse or owner.

Shoes On Farrier Service LLC services all disciplines with a focus on gaited and english disciplines. To schedule an appointment, please fill out the form at the bottom of the page. More questions may be answered on the FAQS page.