Show producers and competitors will want to watch this episode of Cowboy Office to catch a glimpse of the challenges shows face now and in the future, learn how we call all remain diligent about biosecurity concerns, and see a side of venue management that you may have overlooked.

The League of Agricultural and Equine Centers promotes and supports facility management, brings people together, and offers a network of experts that bring awareness of best practices, new developments, and looks to the horizon to prepare for the future.

Cammie Pearson & Joe La Follette join the Cowboys to talk about the complexities of running an equine event facility. From horse sh….um, manure to staffing to biosecurity. We learn how the League supports the industry through education, networking, and problem solving. Their annual symposium will be hosted February 6-10, 2023 in Ocala, FL.

The League creates a family network feel to a competitive sector of the equine industry with the ultimate goal of unifying event venues in a way that leads to greater consistency in customer service and procedures across the nation. As the shutdowns from Covid proved, working together makes everyone better and aids the entire equine community by sharing knowledge rather than hoarding it.

Challenges facing the industry (and how to meet them):

• Shrinking agricultural lands reduces opportunity for youth to participate in 4-H & FFA projects. (Break down barriers with programs like the 4-H Horseless Horse Project, contact your local 4-H club to find out more.)
• Adapting to increased specificity of demand from diverse sectors. (The horse industry may be more resilient than others.)
• Labor shortages (Engage the university system to better promote and create paths for careers in facility management.)
• Manure management (We learn the term “entremanure”)

Groundbreaking News:

• Footing is a big deal for everyone
• GGT - fiber footing or “magic sand”
• Natural material & Kiser Arena Specialists

“The footing you can’t see is what gives the horse its confidence.” Bob Kiser

Education:

Certified Managers of Equine Centers (CMEC) supports education in three core areas:

• Business Management
• Center Operations
• Event Management

Biosecurity (a.k.a. Why Jody stopped carrying his own sprayer and disinfectant to shows)

• Awareness
• Standard practices
• Current biosecurity technology
• Health certificates
• Staff education
• Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC)
• Developing a plan for venues serving as emergency evacuation facilities

Why all horse owners, trainers, and exhibitors should be on the EDCC email list:

• Receive notifications of outbreaks across the nation,
• Know what is happening where you are going when traveling across the country
• Be prepared for what may be brought into your area
• Stay ahead of the curve to help limit the spread.

RESOURCES:

Production and marketing by ConsultMent.Agency

The League of Agricultural & Equine Centers: http://www.laec.info/

Annual Symposium & Footing Academies: https://laec.info/Symposium

Equine Disease Communication Center: https://www.equinediseasecc.org/