focus onCOMMUNITIES 28


carbon and other greenhouse gasses, easing the impact of the developed community on nat- ural systems, especially where large impervious surfaces have increased runoff and pollution in a dramatic way.


A Culture of Horses in America There is also a cultural rel-


evance that makes conserving horse land important. Horses play an important role in our nation’s history, heritage and culture. From the iconic imag- es of the American West to the hunters and race horses who dominate our lore, horses are part of American identity. Indeed, horses tell the American story: The upstart Seabiscuit besting the elite War Admiral and the American Mustang Hidalgo surpassing the Sultan’s horses.


Horses were once part of the


general American experience – they worked to carry and deliver our goods, transport us, and double as a multi-passenger ride to the local swimming hole, having patiently played the role of lesson pony. They resided in our back yards, carriage houses and livery stables, close by. This is a family and childhood expe- rience that is disappearing. If horses are to remain part of the American landscape and part of our lifestyle, it is imperative to protect the lands that support them.


Conservation of land for hors- es is more important than ever. Nationally, we will lack adequate land to support our horse pop- ulation in as litle as 15 years if we continue on our current path. Beter planning can ensure that we conserve the right lands now to ensure that we enjoy a robust, sustaining horse industry for generations to come.


Keeping Land Open for Horses The value and benefits described above directly result from land being open to and


used by horses. It is as simple as that. Development pressures oſten mean that land previous- ly dedicated to horse usage is rezoned for development. While


housing, transportation and business are necessary for any community, case aſter case proves the importance of maintaining horse-focused properties where they exist.


Boarding and training facilities, hayfields, competition venues, horse farms and ranches are being lost to sprawl and poorly-planned development.


Here are some tips for pre-


serving lands for horses and horse related uses in your com- munity: Education Learn about the potential


threats to a horse friendly com- munity and the tools that can


help you to create or keep your horse community happening.


Organization Start your own group, club


or organization, or join one to keep abreast of regulatory and other issues in your community and region that could negatively affect your horse community and activities. Remember that there is strength in numbers, but developing good and friendly relationships is paramount.


Geting and Staying Involved


Not a Static Process Be a leader, or work to assist


leaders in your horse communi- ty. Learn how to talk to decision makers, land owners and others who may be able to affect horses, horse land and horse activities in your community. Once issues are resolved, make it a point to be vigilant and head off new issues before they become a serious threat.


“Advocacy” Local, Regional,


National, Global Talk about the value of horses


in your community and bring like-minded people to the table to speak out for horses. Reach out on social media and start a conversation with other inter- ested people. Horse people tend


to be busy but they also tend to be ready to stand together to protect horse lands. Bring them together. A few voices joined together or even one voice speaking out can save land.


Tools for Planning for Horses


in Your Community Understand the long-term


plan for your community. Request a copy of your compre- hensive plan. Take the time to speak up for horses in the plan- ning process. The power of a citizen speaking out in the plan- ning process oſten outweighs the influence of a well-funded developer. Landscapes are indeed com-


plex. However, a good planning and commited conservation efforts can ensure that we will all enjoy the benefits – eco- nomic, ecological, social and cul- tural – that equine open lands can offer to our communities, for the long term.


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