Join Us
Donate
News
SMART GROWTH STRATEGIES AND PARTNERSHIP KEY TO LAND PRESERVATION IN THE BLUEGRASS
Kentucky Equine Networking Meeting Focused on Land Conservation in Kentucky
For Immediate Release Contact: Katy Ross katy@kentuckyhorse.org 859-367-0509
May 22, 2017 – Lexington, KY – A varied group of equine enthusiasts gathered at Fasig-Tipton for the spring session of the Kentucky Equine Networking Association (KENA). Presented by the Equine Law Group of Dinsmore & Shohl LLP, the evening was intended to educate equine professionals, horse owners and recreational riders on the issue of land loss in the Kentucky’s infamous horse country.
The stellar set of panelists included Holley Groshek, Executive Director of the Equine Land Conservation Resource (ELCR), Susan Speckert, Executive Director of the Fayette Alliance, Ashley Greathouse of Bluegrass Land Conservancy and Roy Cornett, currently serving as the Treasurer for the Back Country Horsemen of America (BCHA).
Groshek, who represents a nationwide organization, spoke of the creation of the ELCR to “sound the alarm” about land loss to equestrians. As most horseback riders are now aware that land loss is an issue, the focus of the organization has shifted to a more-local level and partnership with local entities also seeking to preserve land. “We’re losing 6,000 acres of land a day to development,” Groshek said. Much of the land that is being developed is being developed poorly, she noted.
The concern over “urban sprawl” was reiterated by Susan Speckert of the Fayette Alliance, a land-use advocacy organization in Fayette County, Ky., that is not afocused solely on equines. “People understand what makes our community [of Lexington] great,” Speckert said. In addition to the active, engaged community members, the history and heritage of agriculture are what make Lexington, Lexington. The Fayette Alliance strives to preserve farmland and promote innovative development—which means limiting urban sprawl.
Kentucky has what is deemed “prime farmland soils and soils of statewide importance,” in its Bluegrass Region. The farmland that makes the area renowned for its Thoroughbred racehorses is what Speckert dubs the “factory floor” – this economic engine drives 1 out of 9 jobs in Fayette County and brings in $2.4 billion each year. Speckert reiterated that the Fayette Alliance is not against growth, but it does advocate for smart growth strategies that minimize sprawl.
Ashley Greathouse of the Bluegrass Land Conservancy detailed options available to landowners in the Bluegrass Region wishing to permanently protect their land from development. Designed to protect both land and heritage, the Conservancy focuses on protecting lands that are used as habitat, that are historic, and those that are used for equine and cattle farms in the region. The organization also focuses on preserving fresh water.
Roy Cornett, an active member of the Back Country Horsemen of America, spoke of the need for riders to have access to public lands on which they can ride. He feels that partnership is the key to keeping lands open and rideable, whether that is partnering with other organizations that use the land (like hikers and bikers) or partnering with those tasked with caring for the land.
“This was one of the most diverse crowds KENA has had to date,” said Kentucky Horse Council Executive Director Katy Ross. “The depth of the topics covered was impressive, informing the audience on everything from the amount of money farmland brings to the table in the Kentucky economy to how land owners can protect their lands from development. It’s refreshing to see this vast and varied group of people focus on working together to help solve issues that ultimately affect us all.”
Each of the panelists spoke of the need for equestrians to be active in their local communities; for them to have a unified voice to ensure that land is preserved from urban sprawl; and for them to be educated about the issues that face them as equine enthusiasts.
The next KENA meeting will take place on August 15 at Fasig-Tipton.
###
CONTACT: Kentucky Horse Council
Katy Ross
Executive Director
(859) 367-0509
Kentucky Horse Council Announces MAY KENA Topic:
SAVING GROUND - pRESERVING ky’S hORSE cOUNTRY
Lexington, KY (April 11, 2017) – The Kentucky Horse Council has announced the topic for the May Kentucky Equine Networking Association (KENA) dinner: Saving Ground - Preserving KY’s Horse Country. The dinner, presented by the Equine Law Group of Dinsmore & Shohl LLP, will be held on May 16, 2017, at Fasig-Tipton in Lexington, Ky. KENA is a dinner and educational series open to equine professionals, horse owners, and recreational riders and will feature a networking reception from 5:30-6:00 PM, followed by dinner with the main speakers from 6-8 PM.
The group, focused on the Kentucky thoroughbred, sport, and pleasure horse community, is charged with the mission of providing an educational and social venue for equine professionals and horse enthusiasts from all disciplines. KENA, which is organized by the Kentucky Horse Council and supported by the University of Kentucky Ag Equine Program, provides the opportunity for attendees to share ideas, business strategies and knowledge, and to obtain up-to-date information on horse and farm management.
May’s speakers will be Holley Groshek, Executive Director of the Equine Land Conservation Resource, Susan Speckert, Executive Director of the Fayette Alliance, and Roy Cornett, currently serving as the Treasurer of the Back Country Horsemen of America. The panelists will speak on the importance of land conservation to the equine industry, in terms of farmland, competition venues and access to trails, as well as steps individuals can take to help protect Kentucky’s equine lands.
“The issue of protecting Kentucky’s farm land is important to every member of the Kentucky horse industry, whether you are a trail rider, breeder, or sport horse competitor,” says Kentucky Horse Council Executive Director Katy Ross. “We are thrilled to have a panel with three distinct perspectives on this issue and that will touch all of our membership.”
The May 16 dinner is presented by Dinsmore & Shohl LLP’s Equine Law Group. Dinsmore & Shohl is a full-service law firm with offices in twenty-nine cities throughout nine states and the District of Columbia, including Kentucky offices in Lexington, Frankfort, and Louisville. The Dinsmore Equine Law Group is a generous supporter of the KENA dinner series.
The Kentucky Equine Networking Association welcomes all Kentucky horse owners, professionals and enthusiasts to attend the May 16 event. For details and reservations, visit www.kentuckyhorse.org.
ABOUT THE KENTUCKY HORSE COUNCIL - The Kentucky Horse Council is a non-profit organization dedicated, through education and leadership, to the protection and development of the Kentucky equine community. The Kentucky Horse Council provides educational programs and information, outreach and communication to Kentucky horse owners and enthusiasts, equine professional networking opportunities through KENA, trail riding advocacy, health and welfare programs, and personal liability insurance and other membership benefits. The specialty Kentucky Horse Council license plate, featuring a foal lying in the grass, provides the primary source of revenue for KHC programs
- END -
Registration open for kentucky horse council’s UPDATED livestock investigation training May 22-24
Lexington, KY (March 30, 2017) – The Kentucky Horse Council’s Livestock Investigation Training is back this spring and will be held from May 22-24th at Morehead State University. Registration is now open to all county and state officials, such as Animal Control Officers, Sheriffs, and Police Officers.
Developed by the Kentucky Horse Council (KHC) in partnership with the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association (KCA) with input from experienced enforcement officers, veterinarians, and livestock producers, this three-day course is tailored to the needs of the Commonwealth. For 2017, the curriculum has been updated to reflect current accepted animal care standards and the changes in the law that impact those investigating abuse and neglect cases.
The May training is a Level I training, where attendees will learn how to handle horses and cattle, assess body condition score in both species, identify situations that need intervention, and apply Kentucky statutes to animal cases. Attendees will gain hands-on experience to best prepare them for cases in the field. A Level II training will be offered July 31-August 2nd, also at Morehead State University.
“We are excited to be offering the updated Livestock Investigation Training this year,” said Katy Ross, Kentucky Horse Council Executive Director. “These trainings fill a vital need for education of peace officers on animal abuse and neglect cases in the Commonwealth and advance the mission of the Kentucky Horse Council.”
Peace Officers attending the training are eligible for Continuing Education Units through the Department of Criminal Justice Training.
Cost to attend the three-day training is $150 per officer. Out-of-state officials may attend at $250 per officer. Limited scholarships for tuition are available.
For more information, to register for the class, or for partnership and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.kentuckyhorse.org, or contact the Kentucky Horse Council at 859-367-0509 or info@kentuckyhorse.org.
ABOUT THE KENTUCKY HORSE COUNCIL - The Kentucky Horse Council is a 501©3 non-profit organization dedicated, through education and leadership, to the protection and development of the Kentucky equine community. The Kentucky Horse Council provides educational programs and information, outreach and communication to Kentucky horse owners and enthusiasts, equine professional networking opportunities, trail riding advocacy, health and welfare programs, and personal liability insurance and other membership benefits. The specialty Kentucky Horse Council license plate, featuring a foal lying in the grass, provides the primary source of revenue for KHC programs.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Kentucky Horse Council
Kentucky horse council HOSTS First Boyd county
Recreational Rider Day
Lexington, KY (March 3, 2017) – The Kentucky Horse Council has announced its second Recreational Rider Day of the year and its first to be held at the Boyd County Fairgrounds on March 11, 2017 from 9 am to 4 pm.
This program is an educational and informational day in conjunction with a vendor fair. Educational seminar topics include horse first aid basics, horse feed 101, pasture management, trailer safety, and more. Educational seminars are approved for 4-H education credits and may qualify for Certified Horsemanship Association continuing education credits. There will also be informational booths for equine nonprofits, associations and organizations, as well as vendor booths with tack and other supplies.
“We are excited to host this successful program in a second venue. Our Recreational Rider Days have received such overwhelming feedback and support in Louisville, we are thrilled to be able to offer this program at the other end of the Commonwealth.” said Katy Ross, Kentucky Horse Council Executive Director. “The Boyd County Fairgrounds provides a unique facility that allows us to have educational and hands on workshops. We remain dedicated to the education of youth and horse owners in Kentucky and could not do it without the support of our members and sponsors.”
Admission is $5 cash at the door. Children under 5 are free.
The Recreational Rider Day still has informational booths available as well as vendor space. For more information or to reserve vendor space, please contact info@kentuckyhorse.org.
ABOUT THE KENTUCKY HORSE COUNCIL - The Kentucky Horse Council is a non-profit organization dedicated, through education and leadership, to the protection and development of the Kentucky equine community. The Kentucky Horse Council provides educational programs and information, outreach and communication to Kentucky horse owners and enthusiasts, equine professional networking opportunities through KENA, trail riding advocacy, health and welfare programs, and personal liability insurance and other membership benefits. The specialty Kentucky Horse Council license plate, featuring a foal lying in the grass, provides a source of revenue for KHC programs
Kentucky horse council HOSTS Second ANNUAL
Lexington, KY (February 13, 2017) - The Kentucky Horse Council has announced its second annual Recreational Rider Day to be held February 25, 2017 at the University of Louisville Shelby Road campus from 10 am to 4 pm.
This program, presented by the University of Louisville Equine Industry Program, is an educational and informational day in conjunction with a vendor fair. Educational seminar topics include horse first aid basics, horse feed 101, equine degrees, trailer safety, barn fire prevention and more. Educational seminars are approved for 4-H education credits and may qualify for Certified Horsemanship Association continuing education credits. The United States Pony Club will be bringing their interactive educational display and there are also be informational booths for equine nonprofits, associations and organizations, as well as vendor booths with tack and other supplies.
"We are excited to host this new program for the second year. Our first Recreational Rider Day in 2016 received such overwhelming feedback and support, we are thrilled to be able to offer this again in 2017." said Katy Ross, Kentucky Horse Council Executive Director. "We remain dedicated to the education of youth and horse owners in Kentucky and could not do it without the support of our members and sponsors."
The program is presented by the University of Louisville Equine Industry Program with support from the United States Pony Club and Bannon Woods Veterinary Clinic. Admission is $5 cash at the door. Children under 5 are free.
The Recreational Rider Day still has informational booths available as well as vendor space. For more information or to reserve vendor space, please contact info@kentuckyhorse.org or visit www.kentuckyhorse.org.
Kentucky Horse Council Katy Ross Executive Director (859) 367-0509
Kentucky horse council announces FEBRUARY KENA Topic: EHV-1 101 – What do i need to know?
Lexington, KY (January 23, 2017) – The Kentucky Horse Council has announced the topic for the February Kentucky Equine Networking Association (KENA) dinner: EHV-1 101 – What do I Need to Know? The dinner will be held on February 21, 2017, at Fasig-Tipton in Lexington, Ky. KENA is a dinner and educational series open to both equine professionals and horse owners and will feature a networking reception from 5:30-6:00 PM, followed by dinner with the main speakers from 6-8 PM.
KENA, focused on the Kentucky thoroughbred, sport, and pleasure horse community, is charged with the mission of providing an educational and social venue for equine professionals and horse enthusiasts from all disciplines. KENA, which is organized by the Kentucky Horse Council and supported by the University of Kentucky Ag Equine Program, provides the opportunity for attendees to share ideas, business strategies and knowledge, and to obtain up-to-date information on horse and farm management.
With horses testing positive for EHV-1 in Kentucky in January, the February topic is very timely. Dr. Kenton Morgan, Equine Technical Services Veterinarian with Zoetis, will discuss the different strains of EHV-1 and the risks associated with each. Dr. Joe Lyman, Professional Services Veterinarian with Neogen Corporation, will discuss biosecurity and how to minimize the risk to your horse, at home or while traveling. Rusty Ford, Equine Programs Manager for the Kentucky State Veterinarian’s Office, will provide an update on the current status of the EHV-1 outbreak in Kentucky and the protocols put in place by the State Vet’s Office.The Kentucky Equine Networking Association welcomes all Kentucky horse owners, professionals and enthusiasts to attend the February 21 event. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. For details and reservations, visit www.kentuckyhorse.org or email info@kentuckyhorse.org.
Kentucky Horse Council Announces New Officers, Directors for 2017
Lexington, KY (November 9, 2016) -The Kentucky Horse Council elected new Directors to the Board at the October 23 Annual Meeting. Immediately following, 2017 Officers were elected at a Board Meeting. Both meetings were held at the Kentucky Horse Park.
Erin Woodall was elected to serve a second two-year term as President, following being elected to a second term as a director.
Melissa King, the Kentucky Facilities Director for New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program, was elected to serve a one-year term as Vice President.
Dixie Hayes, the Program Coordinator/Instructor at the North American Racing Academy, was elected to her third one-year term as Secretary.
Nicole Rivera, the Equine Events Director for the Kentucky Horse Park, was elected to a one-year term as Treasurer.
The director elections include Dr. Brittany Adams-Pope, Assistant Professor in the Equine Industry Program in the College of Business at the University of Louisville; Tanya Boulmetis, an associate at Regard Law Group, PLLC; Kari Collier, Human Resources manager for the Kentucky area Sam's Clubs and horse owner; Sarah Liebert-Garner, realtor and founder of the Oldham County Saddle Club; Steve May, Director of Pari-Mutuel Wagering for the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission; Howard Moore, Hydroprocessing Technologist with Marathon Pertroleum and Partner in Team CEO Eventing; Hannah Niebielski, Director of Dressage National Programs at the United States Equestrian Federation; Kelsea Rookard, Director of Marketing and Communications at Lexington Catholic High School; Katie Shoultz, Owner of Isidore Farm and Communications/Public Relations Consultant; and Erin Woodall, Activities and Events Director for the United States Pony Club. Dr. Janice Holland of Midway University has been appointed the Equine Education Consortium representative to the Board of Directors for a one-year term.
"We are excited to add such a wide-ranging group of people from all over the Commonwealth to our Board of Directors and to have such strong leadership as the result of our elections," said Kentucky Horse Council Executive Director Katy Ross. "The diversity of the new directors, combined with the experience and leadership of the returning board members, will help the Kentucky Horse Council as it expands existing programs such as Livestock Investigation Training, Large Animal Emergency Rescue Training and reaches out to both Eastern and Western Kentucky with Recreational Rider Day and gelding and wellness clinics."
For the complete list of the Kentucky Horse Council Board of Directors, visit www.kentuckyhorse.org.
ABOUT THE KENTUCKY HORSE COUNCIL - The Kentucky Horse Council is a non-profit organization dedicated, through education and leadership, to the protection and development of the Kentucky equine community. The Kentucky Horse Council provides educational programs and information, outreach and communication to Kentucky horse owners and enthusiasts, equine professional networking opportunities through KENA, trail riding advocacy, health and welfare programs, and personal liability insurance and other membership benefits. The specialty Kentucky Horse Council license plate, featuring a foal lying in the grass, provides the primary source of revenue for KHC programs.
Kentucky horse council announces November KENA topic: "KENTUCKY BRED, KENTUCKY PROUD: THE BENEFITS OF the KY-bred horse"
Lexington, KY (October 26, 2016) - The Kentucky Horse Council has announced the topic for the November Kentucky Equine Networking Association (KENA) meeting. The November 15 panel discussion, "Kentucky Bred, Kentucky Proud: The Benefits of the KY-Bred Horse," will feature three speakers: Jamie Eads, Ryan Norton and a representative of the Department of Agriculture. They will discuss different breeding incentives as well as how stallion service fees are calculated. KENA is a dinner and educational series open to both equine professionals and horse owners and will feature a networking reception from 5:30-6:00 PM, followed by dinner with the main speakers from 6-8 PM. The dinner will be held at the Fasig-Tipton dining room.
Jamie Eads is the Director of Incentives and Development for the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission. Ms. Eads will explain how the Kentucky Breeders' Incentive Fund works and the breeds to which it applies. She will also discuss the impact that the KBIF has had on foal crops across the Commonwealth.
Ryan Norton is the Stallion Manager at Darby Dan Farm in Lexington, KY. Darby Dan currently stands eight stallions at its Lexington base, including Dialed In and Shackleford. Mr. Norton will discuss how stallion service fees are calculated and set, including such considerations as market trends, stallion progeny reports and more.
A representative of the Department of Agriculture's Kentucky Proud program will discuss the application of the Kentucky Proud program to the equine industry, how horses can be registered to be Kentucky Proud and what incentives there are to Kentucky breeders to register with the program.
The Kentucky Horse Council and Kentucky Equine Networking Association welcome all Kentucky horse owners, professionals and enthusiasts to attend the November 15 event. Ticket prices are $25 through November 14 and $30 at the door. For details and reservations, visit www.kentuckyhorse.org.
Kentucky Horse Council Annual Member Meeting
When: Sunday October 23rd, 3 p.m.
Where: Clubhouse Room in the Covered Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park
Please RSVP to Lauren at lauren@kentuckyhorse.org or 859-367-0509 by Monday October 17th.
Entry to the Park will be free and there are a limited number of Park admission tickets available for members. Please let Lauren know when RSVPing for the meeting if you would like admission tickets for the barns and museums. Parking is available in the main lot. There are a limited number of handicapped parking spots on Lee Cholak Drive. To get to the covered arena from the main parking lot walk through the gatehouse-directly behind the covered arena, and the Clubhouse Room is above the main concourse overlooking the arena.
KENTUCKY HORSE COUNCIL ANNOUNCES AUGUST KENA TOPIC: "BUYER BE AWARE"
Lexington, KY (July 19, 2016) - The Kentucky Horse Council has announced the topic for the August Kentucky Equine Networking Association (KENA) meeting. The August 16 panel discussion, "Buyer Be Aware," will feature three speakers: Dr. Woodrow Friend, Melissa Moore and Laura D'Angelo. They will discuss what considerations a buyer should have when purchasing a horse. KENA is a dinner and educational series open to both equine professionals and horse owners and will feature a networking reception from 5:30-6:00 PM, followed by dinner with the main speakers from 6-8 PM. The dinner will be held at the Fasig-Tipton dining room.
The group, focused on the Kentucky thoroughbred, sport, and pleasure horse community, is charged with the mission of providing an educational and social venue for equine professionals and horse enthusiasts from all disciplines. KENA, which is organized by the Kentucky Horse Council and supported by the University of Kentucky Ag Equine Program, provides the opportunity for attendees to share ideas, business strategies and knowledge, and to obtain up-todate information on horse and farm management.
Dr. Woodrow Friend, a veterinarian with Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, KY, will discuss the pre-purchase examination of a horse and what buyers should consider before deciding to purchase or pass on an animal.
Melissa Moore, the owner of Sunrise Stables in Versailles, KY, is an equine professional, horse trainer and judge. She will examine current market trends as relates to sales prices and ways to market a horse effectively. She will also touch on how a buyer should start looking for their ideal horse.
Laura D'Angelo, an attorney specializing in equine and gaming law with Dinsmore & Shohl, LLP, will discuss legal considerations a buyer should have when purchasing a horse and how to best protect one's self in a deal.
The Kentucky Equine Networking Association welcomes all Kentucky horse owners, professionals and enthusiasts to attend the August 16 event. Ticket prices are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. For details and reservations, visit www.kentuckyhorse.org.
ABOUT THE KENTUCKY HORSE COUNCIL - The Kentucky Horse Council is a 501©3 nonprofit organization dedicated, through education and leadership, to the protection and development of the Kentucky equine community. The Kentucky Horse Council provides educational programs and information, outreach and communication to Kentucky horse owners and enthusiasts, equine professional networking opportunities, trail riding advocacy, health and welfare programs, and personal liability insurance and other membership benefits. The specialty Kentucky Horse Council license plate, featuring a foal lying in the grass, provides the primary source of revenue for KHC programs.
Call or Email Us
Office: 859-367-0509
Email: info@kentuckyhorse.org
Fax: 866-618-3837
Address:
4037 Iron Works Parkway
Suite 120
Lexington, Kentucky 40511
