Category: American Horse Council

In recent months, several surveys have been circulated regarding the U.S. horse industry. The American Horse Council’s Equine Economic Impact Survey is one that has been active since April and will be wrapping up September 29. This survey, done once every five years, has been used by hundreds of local and federal groups, horse associations and horse owners to support their industry in times of need. In this episode, four leaders in the industry share how they have used the previous survey’s results to help protect and support their local horse industry, trails and gain recognition for the impact horses and the industry has had on their economy.

Horse owners are some of the biggest supporters of the environment. They understand the importance of green space, access to fresh water and mild temperatures to ride. Julie and Megan speak with two Colorado State University students who presented their research on how one show facility in Helsinki, Finland, is utilizing its own occupants’ waste for power—that’s right: Manure for Electricity. Then, the AHC’s Health, Welfare and Regulatory Affairs Liaison, Emily Stearns, talks about the horse industry working alongside the Environmental Protection Agency and what “green” legislation might affect the horse industry. Finally, Julie shares an update on the Equine Economic Impact Survey, which is ongoing through September 29.

Anyone can become down on their luck and it’s never too late to recognize resources local to you. In this episode, Julie and Megan speak with three women who are working to help horse owners and horse enthusiasts help horses in need. Brittney Vallot highlights the amazing work that Days End Farm Horse Rescue and the Maryland Equine Transportation Service has done for the Maryland area since it was established in 1989. Dr. Stephanie Boswell has a strong interest in the behavior and welfare of the horse, making it her goal to make horses’ lives better through both physical and mental well-being. This led to her writing her book, available through Trafalgar Books, Helping Horses in Need, not only for those looking to work in rescue, but for the everyday horse owner wanting to make life more enjoyable for their horses. Finally, Ashley Harkins, Director of the United Horse Coalition, shares how the UHC provides plenty of resources for horse owners looking for assistance in caring for their horses, as well as those working with horses at-risk and in transition.

The second episode of the American Horse Council edition of Horses in the Morning shines a spotlight on the youth of the horse industry. Julie and Megan speak with the president of the U.S. Pony Clubs, Jennifer Sweet, and the Executive Director of Amplify Horse Racing, Annise Montplaisir. We learn more about how the organizations work with children and young adults to introduce the horse and encourage participation in multiple facets of the industry. The annual AHC Youth Fly-In is the topic of the AHC Legislative Update, as well as a couple of pieces of legislation that affect the mental and physical health of our youth.

The first episode of the American Horse Council edition of Horses in the Morning goes Western when Julie and Megan speak with Russell True from White Stallion Ranch. The history and enticement of dude ranches is discussed and how the family-centric vacation can help preserve the American West and benefit the equine industry. The first AHC Legislative Update shares information on the latest happenings in Washington, D.C., as well as two pieces of legislation being discussed in California.