02/19/08 Horse industry and recession

How Recession proof is the Horse Industry? We have learned by past cycles what a recession can do to the cattle market but with the economy slowing researchers are now studying how the horse industry would weather one as well. I'm Jeff Keane and I will be back after the break with some insight from experts. Slower economic growth is forecasted so whether we have a full blown recession or an economic slowdown, the horse industry is could take some hits. Here's Susan. Jeff, I think most of us who own horses have already felt the impact of high hay and diesel prices. Unlike the average consumer though horse owners, especially those that travel to campaign their animals get a virtual double whammy with fuel and feed! The race to ethanol means the price for hay has skyrocketed as farmers are planting crops like corn. Alfalfa was up more than 20 percent over last year. The Center for Equine Business Studies at Texas A& M University is researching the full effects a recession could have on the broader horse industry. I don't think we realize how many business's, hotels, restaurants, equipment and feed stores benefit from horse owners& not to mention the impact attendance in equine events; the ropings, cuttings, shows, barrel racing and rodeo's have on the economy. Let the researchers, research. If we have a recession the horse industry, like the cattle industry will survive.