Elevated Equine: Connecting Equine Owners with UGA Extension
Extension Education
Ashley Best
County Extension Coordinator/ANR Agent
University of Georgia
Covington
Abstract
The equine industry in Georgia, as well as Newton County, has grown in scope over the last decade. The total Equine Farm Gate value in Newton County is over $9 million. It contributes a significant amount to the local and state economy. Majority of horse owners rely on local feed shops and other local equine professionals to get information about care and management of horses. Information gathered by horse owners from local feed stores, farriers and other members of the equine community is often not research-based or accurate. This information can be out-of-date, ineffective and more commonly opinion-based. Previous equine programming from Extension has been targeted towards 4-H youth and the adult education has been minimal. Newton County is becoming home to more equine owners with the presence of multiple boarding facilities, several trainers and a 35,000 square foot horse arena. The equine community in Newton County and surrounding counties has often contacted the ANR Agent regarding equine management questions. There is also a need for more youth equine programming and events. The Agent has also renewed the 4-H Horse Club activities. The junior 4-H horse judging team placed 2nd at the State 4-H Horse Judging contest in April 2022. The Newton ANR Agent has gathered equine resources into one location on the Newton ANR blog web site. The Newton County Extension Equine Resources site, on the Newton ANR Blog site, created an easily accessible site for clientele to view archived equine presentations and publications. There is now a quarterly equine newsletter called, “The Leading Rein.” The “Leading Rein” equine newsletter reaches over 2000 people with each issue published. The Newton ANR Agent has also hosted multiple equine virtual programs. There are also virtual programs scheduled for 2023. The programs to date have had 250 registered participants. Individuals attending provided the following verbal feedback: “I didn’t even know what to look for with mild colic. Now I know what to do and when to call my vet.”
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Ashley Best
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Best, A. County Extension Agent, , Georgia, 30014