The Stables

Insurance costs for horseback riding and stable care are said to be high. This does not stop some groups. Initial work will be with creating trails, loading areas and corrals, and developing a clientele.

Several stables throughout the region may be marketed as a unit. They provide superior horse care under a veterinarian's supervision. A computer-based nutrition program for each horse will become available.

A computer simulation and system provides an analysis of status, finances, health scores, and shows achievement of system objectives.

Publications and presentations on web sites and elsewhere include sections on ecosystem management, the role of horses in wildlife management, the attitudes of horse owners to a cooperative system of horse use and trail rides, the behavior of wildlife related to the wildlife-observer whether on foot or on horseback, the horse trail and its construction and use in recreation and wildlife management, and the potential role of horses in ecotourism.

The group works cooperatively with Stoneworms and The Wildland Walkers. Superior trails demonstrate concerns for watershed quality.

The proposed enterprise may provide:

• Quality housing and foods (see The Pasture and Range Group)
• Superior safe and supervised riding areas
• Trail rides (some with a Civil war theme) with splendid vistas and interesting "stops"
• Trail rides conducted for owners and others
• Horse exercise
• Distance and challenge races
• Access to horse loggers in select areas
• A source of special wastes (processed, dried, packaged, and sold)
• Riding lessons
• Night rides (see The Owls Group)
• Snow rides (wagon and sled)
• A regional organization with newsletter, equipment sales, horse photography and art, and outings.