The American Horse Council (AHC) and AHC Foundation are proud to release the 2023 National Economic Impact Study Technical Appendix (also known as Report #2). The original report, released in January 2024, contained national statistics and economic impact data, while report #2 offers demographics, consumer data and detailed tables from the study that were not contained in Report #1. This includes responses to questions on purchasing patterns and future involvement.
This supporting report is available for purchase on the AHC website for $50.00. A two-page PDF of the Report #1 results is available for FREE on the AHC website, and the full report is available for purchase for $100.
“We are very excited that, for the first time, we can offer some additional insights and trends obtained during the course of the study,” states AHC President Julie Broadway. “We believe you will find this data very useful and fascinating.”
Broadway added that because AHC staff and board have had the time to process the results and the numbers, there was one noted correction, which is as follows:
Page 40 on horse acreage should state … If 62% of the horse owners reported owning or leasing a farm, barn, or stable this results in ~2 acres per horse.
The supporting report looks to highlight more details relating to the horse industry’s increased contribution to the gross distribution product (GDP) and can be a valuable tool for business owners and professionals alike.
For more information and to purchase the overall National Equine Economic Impact Study (Report #1) or the supporting report (Report #2), see the AHC website: https://horsecouncil.org/economic-impact-study/
American Horse Council Announces 2024 National Issues Forum Speakers
When you want to be in the know about the latest issues affecting the horse industry nationally and regionally, you’ve got to be in Washington, D.C., June 9-12.
The Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill Hotel is the place to be for insightful and informative discussions on all things affecting the equine industry for the 2024 American Horse Council Conference and National Issues Forum. The two-day event will wrap up with opportunities for organized agency and congressional hill visits as a way to show unity within the equine industry.
The American Horse Council (AHC) is excited to announce its lineup of tentative speakers and presenters for the annual conference at the Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill Hotel. Attendees can expect to get the most current and relevant information on topics affecting the equine industry.
The tentative schedule (all times EDT):
1:00 pm – Panel discussion on “Own Responsibility” and “Social License to Operate” – moderated by David O’Connor of USEF, including Dr. Jim Heird (others TBA)
3:00 pm – Grass Roots Advocacy (part of the Coalition of State Horse Councils meeting)
8:00 am – Here For Horses Presentation by the AHC Marketing Alliance
8:30 am – AHC Legislative & Regulatory Update from AHC Staff
9:00 am – Advocacy Playbook: Learn How Other Associations Develop Their Positions and Polices – Dr. Mark Lutschaunig (AVMA), Burton Eller (The National Grange), Ryan Yates (American Farm Bureau Federation) and Jeff Evan (American Society of Association Executives)
10:00 am – Economics of Ag & Equine – Todd Van Hoose (President and CEO of Farm Credit Council) and Julie Broadway (American Horse Council)
11:00 am – Equine Assisted Services – Kathy Alm (PATH International), Kathy Blaine Loudon (therapeutic riding) and Karyn Brown (retired veteran)
1:00 pm – Racing Committee – Topic and speaker TBA, Unsanctioned Racing Update (Brigid Shea of AHC and AHC intern Ramsey Stroud)
2:00 pm – Health Committee – Veterinary Workforce Development – Dr. Paula Parker (AVMA), Dr. Eleanor Green (Lincoln Memorial) and Dr. Katherine Garrett (AAEP)
3:00 pm – Welfare Committee – Equine Euthanasia and Disposal – Dr. Michael Murphy (AVMA) and Dr. Emily Cornell (FDA)
4:00 pm – Show and Competition Committee – Innovation and Technology – Fatima Terry and Fredy Diaz (USDA Digital Services) and Juliana Chapman (The Tech Equestrian)
8:00 am – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Survey Results from the AHC DEI Task Force
8:30 am – Recreation, Trails and Land Use Committee – Together Outdoors – Outdoor Recreational Roundtable and Holley Groshek (Equine Land Conservation Resource)
9:30 am – Regulatory Committee – The Regulatory Playbook: How Does It All Work? – Emily Stearns (AHC), Jennifery Reynolds (UMD) and Sandra TenBroech (University of Florida)
10:45 am – Congressional Hill Visit Orientation and Briefing – AHC Staff
Afternoon & Wednesday, June 12 – Agency and Congressional Hill Visits
Event registration is now open: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-american-horse-council-annual-conference-tickets-810166368417
Book your hotel within the AHC Conference block: https://www.sonesta.com/royal-sonesta/dc/washington/royal-sonesta-washington-dc-capitol-hill?isGroupCode=true&groupCode=G060124AHCM&checkin=2024-06-08&checkout=2024-06-12
For more information or questions, contact the AHC: info@horsecouncil.org
The American Horse Council (AHC) is looking to honor the brightest leaders in the equine industry. The nomination period for the prestigious awards is now open. Honorees will be named during the AHC’s annual meeting and National Issues Forum, to be held in Washington, D.C., June 9-12.
These awards highlight the remarkable achievements and contributions made by those dedicated to advancing and promoting the horse community. While there are so many individuals and groups that should be recognized, the AHC looks to accept suggestions from all industry stakeholders.
The Van Ness Award is named in honor of the late Marjorie Van Ness of New Jersey, a long-time leader and friend to the horse industry. This award is presented to an individual who best emulates the dedication and commitment of Marjorie Van Ness to the improvement of the horse industry at the state level.
The recipient of the Van Ness Award must fulfill at least one of the following criteria:
Last year’s recipient of the Van Ness Award was Cheslie Huseman, Ph.D., assistant professor and extension horse specialist in the Department of Animal Science at Texas A&M University.
The Hickey Award is named in honor of past AHC President James J. Hickey Jr., who served the AHC from 1993 to 2016. This award is presented to an individual who has been a great supporter of the horse industry and the AHC.
The recipient of the Hickey Award must meet the following criteria:
The recipient of the 2023 Hickey Award was Jerry Black, DVM, whose contributions cover a host of organizations, including the Pacific Coast Cutting Horse Association, the American Veterinary Medical Association, the National Cutting Horse Association, and the California Veterinary Medical Association. He served as president of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) in 2021 and was AHC Board Chairman from 2016 to 2019.
The Rolapp Award is presented in honor of the late Rich Rolapp, who was President of the AHC from 1974 to 1993. This award is presented to a Member of Congress who has been a great supporter of the horse industry.
The recipient of this award is selected by AHC staff and leadership. In 2023, the award was given posthumously to Representative Jackie Walorski (R-IN).
The AHC Champion Award will honor an AHC member (individual or group/association) who has demonstrated extensive and exemplary advocacy for the industry and the AHC. The recipient of this award will be selected from nominations by AHC staff and leadership.
The recipient must meet the following criteria:
The 2023 AHC Champion Award was given to Gary Carpenter, who recently retired as Commissioner of the National Reining Horse Association.
The UHC’s Unity Award which recognizes an individual (or organization) that meets the following criteria:
The inaugural winner of the UHC United Award was Days End Farm Horse Rescue, located in Woodbine, Maryland.
Nominations are due April 1, 2024, and may be sent to the attention of current AHC President Julie Broadway at jbroadway@horsecouncil.org.
More information regarding the 2024 AHC Conference and National Issues Forum will be released soon.
Submit Equine Educational Resources for Updated Source Book Directory of Equine Educational Resources
The latest trend is to resurrect things that were once considered new. Considering that trend, two esteemed equine institutions are bringing back a vital piece of informative material to assist the equine industry.
The American Horse Council (AHC) and American Youth Horse Council (AYHC) have joined forces to recreate a directory of equine educational resources known as “The Source Book.”
Originally published in 1999, the AYHC’s Source Book included a list of brochures, CDs, publications and other educational material focusing on the equine industry. Since then, technology has delivered a wider variety of resources that now includes online learning platforms, podcasts, e-publications and more. With so much information, that can honestly be a little mind boggling, it was time to refresh and bring back “The Source Book.”
The Source Book will be available as an online tool on both the AYHC and AHC websites.
“One of the missions of the American Horse Council is to provide as many doors to opportunities as possible to all horse owners and enthusiasts,” says Julie Broadway, president of the AHC. “And it is the mission of the AYHC to provide leadership and resources that will serve and promote the youth of the equine industry. Partnering on The Source Book is just a small part of what both groups can do to help enthusiasts, supporters, and everyone in the industry.”
Submissions are free and are being accepted from all equine associations and nonprofit organizations.
Submissions received by March 29, 2024, will be entered into a drawing for one of two $50 Visa gift cards.
To be a part of this revolutionary resource list, complete the following form for each resource: https://forms.gle/S9918UmTdvom5fA26
The American Horse Council (AHC) is currently seeking student interns for the Summer 2024 (May-August) session. Most internships can be completed remotely, but opportunities are also available for students wishing to experience government affairs activities in person in Washington, D.C. All projects are coordinated by AHC staff and are limited to 12-week terms. Students may choose to receive course credit or a financial stipend (up to $125 per week, dependent on agreed-upon project commitment). Project commitments typically range from 10-20 hours per week. The AHC is also able to accommodate thesis projects and other student-led research academic credit needs.
Students participating in AHC internships gain experience in the larger equine industry through exposure to association involvement in active government affairs and regulatory issues at the Federal level and introduction to the immense range of industry stakeholders. Interns are invited to attend virtual staff meetings to understand active and future AHC initiatives outside of their direct project as well as general association operations.
Students do not need horse experience to apply. Projects listed for student involvement are not necessarily comprehensive of all available opportunities. Students are encouraged to reach out to the AHC if they have a related interest that is not specifically listed. This would include students interested in advocacy and political science, equine welfare, and other industry-related topics.
Potential Internship Positions:
The AHC maintains an active and constantly updating website. The website is a key component of how the AHC communicates current issues and events to members and stakeholders. Search engine optimization (SEO) is needed to improve the appearance and positioning of web pages in organic search results. Interns should have experience with SEO and YOAST. This project may be done remotely.
Each year as part of its Annual Conference, the AHC coordinates congressional office and federal agency visits for attendees. This position will work closely with the AHC Government Affairs and Regulatory staff to schedule meetings and, using information collected from the attendee’s registration forms, put together teams to meet with congressional and federal agency staff. The intern will also research and prepare issue briefings. This individual may work remotely but must be located in the D.C. area and attend the AHC Conference June 9-12, 2024.
For more information and or to apply contact Julie Broadway, AHC President, at jbroadway@horsecouncil.org
To learn more about AHC Internships, visit: https://horsecouncil.org/about-us/ahc-student-internship-program/
To learn more about the American Horse Council, visit: www.horsecouncil.org
If so, you may be required to file a report to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). FinCEN is a bureau of the U.S. Department of Treasury.
If your company was created or registered prior to January 1, 2024, you will have until January 1, 2025, to report. (There are different reporting timelines if your company was not created or registered prior to 2024. See the Website for guidance.)
Companies required to report need to do so through FinCEN’s Website: www.fincen.gov/boi
Resources for more information include:
FinCEN’s Small Entity Compliance Guide
Iowa State University Center for Agricultural Law & Taxation
These reporting requirements stem from the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), part of the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020. In 2021, Congress enacted the Corporate Transparency Act.
This law creates a beneficial ownership information reporting requirement as part of the U.S. government’s efforts to make it harder for bad actors to hide or benefit from their ill-gotten gains through shell companies or other opaque ownership structures. While this legislation has been around for a few years, FinCEN, a bureau within the U.S. Treasury Department, recently issued a final rule establishing the beneficial ownership information reporting requirements, which take effect on January 1, 2024.
The reporting requirement is to record Beneficial ownership.
A beneficial owner is:
A person can be a beneficial owner when they have significant influence over the activities and decisions of the entity, even if they don’t own a substantial portion of the company’s stock or hold a formal title such as, but not limited to, CEO or President.
“Beneficial owners” could be found beyond the normal scope of ownership potentially extending to certain family members. These rules are complex and should be examined thoroughly to ensure compliance.
Information collected include the following items.
The company must also submit an image of the identification document to FinCEN.
For more information about the American Horse Council, click here: www.horsecouncil.org
Want more industry news? Check out the latest happenings here: https://horsecouncil.org/latest-news/
The American Horse Council doesn’t need a specific date on the calendar to know when to celebrate the horse, and we know that for those whose lives center around the horse, you don’t either.
However, December 13 is National Day of the Horse. And it’s a time to celebrate.
This day was designated by Congress in 2004 to encourage Americans to be mindful of the horse’s contribution to the economy, history and the character of the United States of America. Each year has a theme, and this year’s theme is:
We know how much better our lives are thanks to horses. Now, let’s make horses’ lives better because of that.
Throughout the month of December, the AHC has counted down to December 13 by sharing different ways that the American Horse Council, its partners and off-shoots are working to help the horse and help the horse owner. If you have not seen the campaign, we encourage you to follow the AHC on Facebook and Instagram by searching “American Horse Council.”
On Wednesday, December 13, the American Horse Council is asking its members to help us promote National Day of the Horse and encourage followers and members to support the American Horse Council Foundation. The AHC Foundation is seeking funding to further research, increase educational pursuits through scholarships and potentially launch grant programs to help other equine-related nonprofits continue their mission. We know there are so many great causes asking for money, so we appreciate any consideration for supporting the Foundation.
You can find out more information on the AHC Foundation by visiting the website: https://horsecouncil.org/about-us/ahc-programs/ahc-foundation-2/
As you share your celebration of the day on social media, we’d appreciate tagging the American Horse Council in your social media posts, so we can share with our audiences as well. Remember to use the hashtags #Here4Horses and #NationalDayoftheHorse
Thank you for everything you do for the horse—personally and professionally. Together, we can continue to share the brilliance of this magnificent animal and all the things they do to make the world a better place.
The American Horse Council is pleased to announce that President Julie Broadway has been added to the International Advisory Board of EUNetHorse.
EUNetHorse is an international group that is researching ways to improve the resilience and performance of horse farms in Europe. Eleven countries including Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Switzerland, and the United States will share their experiences and insights on important issues such as:
“It’s an honor to be asked to represent the United States and to serve with leaders from across Europe on this important issue,” states Broadway. “I look forward to our collaboration and the development of ideas and solutions that could benefit everyone.”
She’s a lifelong horse enthusiast ranging from recreational rider to breeder and show competitor. In her years in the equine industry, she has built a network of partners and colleagues to draw from on issues such as those EUNetHorse is seeking to address. She also has strong contacts across the livestock, animal, sports, and association spaces. She has led and volunteered on numerous nonprofit boards and is a past president of PATH International and is currently on the group’s Credentialling Council. She was named President of the American Horse Council in 2016, where she leads the group’s mission to advocate for the social, economic, and legislative interests of the equine industry in the United States.
EUNetHorse is funded by Horizon Europe (a research program of the European Union Commission) and will focus on the transfer of knowledge over a four-year period through several workshops, leading to a series of factsheets, video and tools.
To learn more about the other members on the American Horse Council staff, visit: AHC Staff Members
To learn more about the American Horse Council, visit: www.horsecouncil.org
Dear AHC members,
Despite our thriftiness and best efforts to manage expenses, AHC leadership has determined that beginning in 2024 we will need to implement dues increase. AHC last raised dues in 2017, so after 6 years, AHC is seeking a modest increase in membership dues to continue to address the important legislative and regulatory issues facing the equine industry; maintain advocacy partnerships and keep pace with technology.
Our objective was to strike a balance among the diverse membership entities and individuals that comprise the AHC. The proposed schedule recognizes the considerable financial and human resources contributed by our longstanding members without overburdening the smaller organizations and individuals that we need to continue to recruit. For example:
Please feel free to contact jbroadway@horsecouncil.org for additional details.
Over the past year, AHC has provided its members with timely legislative updates and advocated for members in the regulatory area by providing comments on labor, horse welfare, environmental, and tax issues. We facilitated member contacts with Congress and represented the equine industry in a multitude of forums and coalitions.
AHC has also expanded our communications and advocacy through an increased presence on social media, to include monthly Podcasts, quarterly Webinars, and editorial placements in relevant media platforms.
Coming up in 2024 is our National Issues Forum scheduled for June 9-12, 2024, at the Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill. We will also be participating in member-sponsored events and other national forums.
We are considered an honest broker of information – a valued and rare distinction due to the active involvement of our members.
Thank you for your membership. We look forward to the year ahead with you as a member of the AHC.
For more information about the American Horse Council, please visit: www.horsecouncil.org
For more information about American Horse Council membership, please visit: AHC Membership
Lynda is the membership and communications specialist for the American Horse Council. Lynda grew up in Pasadena, Maryland with a passion for horses. She relocated to San Diego, California, where her dream of owning and riding horses came true. Lynda has worked with several law enforcement mounted units and has participated in several national and international horse associations.
Lynda believes horses play a major role in our society from therapy horses helping children learn to walk again, to helping military veterans and emergency service personnel learn to cope with stress, to keeping our parks and cities safe through law enforcement mounted units. Along with our equine partners assisting in burial services at Arlington National Cemetery. Horses impact our lives in ways others cannot.
Lynda believes the horse industry as a whole needs to have a voice and working at the American Horse Council is a way for her to help and keep the industry alive and informed.
Cliff Williamson is the Director of Health and Regulatory Affairs for the American Horse Council based in Washington D.C.
He grew up in Reva, VA on his family’s horse farm, participating in both horse and livestock 4-H activities. In 2008 he graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in Animal Science, where he was an active member of both the animal science club Block & Bridle as well as the agricultural fraternity Alpha Gamma Rho. After graduation he spent 27 months in Nicaragua with the Peace Corps for their Food Security Program. Upon his return to the United States he spent four years in the animal export industry as the Director of Animal Logistics for T.K. Exports, Inc. In that time he was honored to be appointed to a seat on the Board of Directors for the Culpeper chapter of the Farm Bureau Federation.
For information regarding any equine health issues, welfare issues, and state, federal and international requirements regarding the movement of horses, please contact Cliff.
Bryan Brendle is the Director of Policy & Legislative Affairs for the AHC.
For information regarding public policy, government relations and advocacy, please contact Bryan.
With over 30 years of leadership experience in both for-profit and non-profit sectors, Julie holds a BS, MBA, Executive Certificate in Non-Profit Leadership and is Certified Association Executive®. She’s a life-long horse enthusiast ranging from recreational rider, breeder, and show competitor. A native of NC, she and her husband now reside in DC along with their Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Morgan horses.
In her down time she enjoys volunteering (she’s president of the board of PATH International), horseback riding, gardening and cooking. “I’m passionate about the equine industry because horses have enhanced my life and well-being so profoundly,” said Julie. “Working at the AHC is a way to give back to the equine community and ensure the long term health of the industry.”