Release of Liability, Assumption of Risk, and Indemnification Agreement
I acknowledge and understand that my participation (and/or my child’s participation) in activities at The Hammie Ranch is entirely voluntary and may expose me (and/or my child) to a wide range of inherent and unavoidable risks. These risks may result in serious injury, illness, emotional distress, allergic reactions, property damage, or death. I accept full responsibility for these risks and voluntarily assume them, whether expected or unforeseen.
These risks include, but are not limited to:
Interaction with domesticated farm animals such as chickens, ducks, goats, Jersey cows, beef cattle, donkeys, pigs, horses, and livestock guardian dogs.
Exposure to animal waste (manure, urine, feathers, dander, hair, saliva), which may contain allergens, parasites, or bacteria.
Animal behavior that may be unpredictable, including but not limited to: biting, kicking, butting, charging, head tossing, pecking, flying, jumping, vocalizing loudly, mounting, sudden movements, or escape attempts.
Contact with live insects such as bees, wasps, hornets, fire ants, ticks, mosquitoes, flies, and other wildlife or pests.
Exposure to bee hives and honeybees includes the potential risk of anaphylactic shock in allergic individuals.
Allergic reactions to any farm-related substances, including but not limited to: hay, straw, feed, dander, animal saliva, beeswax, propolis, honey, pollen, milk, eggs, feathers, and essential oils.
Consumption or handling of farm products such as unpasteurized (raw) milk, farm-fresh eggs (duck, chicken, or fertile), raw honey, and baked goods made under Florida Cottage Food Law regulations, which are not subject to inspection by the FDA or the Department of Agriculture.
Contact with soil, mud, puddles, bacteria, fungi, compost, or decaying plant matter may cause illness or infection.
Use of or accidental contact with farm tools, fencing (including electric fencing and Barbed wire fencing), gates, latches, hoses, buckets, feed bins, wheelbarrows, or other ranch equipment.
Tripping hazards from uneven terrain, tree roots, holes, gravel, irrigation, wood chips, hose lines, or weather-worn structures.
Slipping hazards from mud, water, animal waste, algae, or spilled feed or hay.
Climbing on or near farm equipment, animal enclosures, hay bales, trailers, or gates, whether supervised or unsupervised.
Inclement or extreme weather conditions, including heat, sun exposure, UV rays, wind, rain, lightning, and insects attracted by weather changes.
Lack of immediate access to medical services or emergency responders due to the rural nature of the property.
Psychological distress or discomfort from exposure to animal smells, noises, natural processes such as breeding, birth, or butchering, and/or educational discussions regarding farm life.
Additional Understandings:
I acknowledge and agree that:
I am responsible for the supervision and behavior of any minors accompanying me. The Hammie Ranch does not provide childcare or individual monitoring of guests.
I will not enter restricted areas, climb fences, open animal gates, or handle animals or equipment without direct permission from ranch staff.
I will wear appropriate clothing and closed-toed shoes suitable for farm conditions and understand that clothing or personal items may become damaged, dirty, or stained.
I am aware that animal-related activities carry risk regardless of animal size or temperament, and there is no such thing as a “completely safe” animal.
The Hammie Ranch is not responsible for any accidents, injuries, allergic reactions, illnesses, lost or damaged property, or emotional responses related to the farm experience.
If I experience distress, injury, or medical issues during my visit, I am responsible for seeking and paying for any needed medical care, including emergency services if required.
I grant The Hammie Ranch permission to use photos or videos taken during my visit for promotional purposes, unless I request otherwise in writing.
I will respect the farm, staff, animals, and other guests. Disruptive or unsafe behavior may result in immediate removal from the property without refund.
Legal Release
I hereby release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue The Hammie Ranch, its owners, employees, volunteers, representatives, and affiliates from any and all claims, damages, causes of action, or liability arising out of or related to my (or my child’s) participation in any activity, whether on the premises or at an off-site event hosted by The Hammie Ranch, whether such claims are based on negligence, act of God, animal behavior, environmental factors, or otherwise.
I agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless The Hammie Ranch from any and all losses, liabilities, damages, or costs they may incur due to my (or my child’s) participation.
Final Certification
I certify that I am at least 18 years of age, or the parent or legal guardian of the minor(s) listed below, and that I have carefully read and fully understand the contents of this agreement. I understand this is a legally binding document, and I am signing it voluntarily. I agree that this release is binding upon me, my heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns, and will be governed by the laws of the State of Florida.