Preserving Trail Riding
Some of us use our horses for ranch work while others opt to compete in shows, but the majority of the horses in the U.S. are owned by folks who love to trail ride and that could be a problem if trail access becomes limited. I’m Jeff Keane, stay tuned after the break because I’ll be back to tell you how one equestrian group is working to preserve the freedom to trail ride. Your right to ride your horse on public lands has been under assault by a variety of environmental groups. To fight their tactics the American Quarter Horse Association has teamed up with the US Forest Service. Here’s Susan Allen. Jeff, when the American Quarter Horse Association puts it’s muscle and clout of over three hundred thousand U.S. members behind a cause, expect change! The AQHA recently signed a memorandum of understanding to work with the Forest Service to actively promote public and private partnerships that encourage equestrian activities. The AQHA has developed a communications network called STEP; Stewards for Trails, Education and Partnerships Program. Jeff, their goal through STEP is to provide a vehicle that unites the Forest Service, land managers and horse owners in the common goal of trail preservation. Susan, in our region notably in areas where urbanites vacation, environmentalists have clashed with packers and trail riders. I am more than pleased that a portion of our AQHA membership dues will help preserve our right to ride on public lands. I’m Jeff Keane.
