Equine Industry Advisory Task Force created in Ohio

October 31, 2008

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Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Robert Boggs on Friday announced the creation of an 11-member Equine Industry Advisory Task Force designed to discuss strategies for promoting and strengthening Ohio’s equine industry.

More than 307,000 horses make up the Ohio horse industry that produces a total economic impact valued at approximately $2.2 billion in goods and services and employs more than 16,000 people.

“This task force’s creation is an exciting event for the equine industry here in Ohio,” said Boggs. “Our goal is to strengthen the industry and to renew Ohioans’ enthusiasm by bringing together representatives who can share diverse experiences and viewpoints.”

Chaired by the department, the task force includes seven representatives and four at-large members, each chosen on equine industry expertise and peer support following an initial stakeholder meeting in September 2008.

Members of the Equine Industry Advisory Task Force include:

Representatives

Adam Ward, Ohio Department of Agriculture Legislative Liaison, Chair

Willie Koester, Ohio Racing Commission, Racing Industry

Mike Gerard, private horse owner, Pleasure Horse Industry

Gary King, Ohio Agri-business Association, Feed and Tack Industry

Elizabeth Burick, private horse owner, Show Horse Industry

Dr. Tony Forshey, Ohio Department of Agriculture State Veterinarian, Veterinary Field

Fred Arnold, Ohio Fair Managers Association, Ohio County Fairs

Dr. John Mossbarger, Midland Acres, Equine Breeders

At-Large Members

Keith Stimpert, Ohio Farm Bureau

Brock Schmaltz, Ohio Equine Industry Coalition

Tom Fries, Jr., Ohio Standardbred Commission

Denny Hales, Ohio Quarterhorse Association

The first Equine Industry Advisory Task Force meeting will be held Nov. 6, at 10 a.m. at the department’s Bromfield Administration Building, Seminar Room B, 8995 E. Main St., Reynoldsburg, Ohio. (Ohio Dept. of Agriculture)

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