THE WISCONSIN STATE HORSE COUNCIL EQUINE ......20 AAEP Foundation Thank You 21 SKMHTA Thank You Letter 22 Midwest Horse Fair 23 WSHCEF Pledge to Governor Dodge for Improvements / WI

THE WISCONSIN STATE HORSE COUNCIL EQUINE FOUNDATION PRESENTS:

July 2018

2 Mission Statement/AHC 3 WSHCEF 4 Governor Dodge Announces Campground Plans 5 Governor Dodge Announces Campground Plans (cont.) 6 Pests May Bring Harm to Horses, Humans 7 Pests May Bring Harm to Horses, Humans (cont.) 8 Villa Louis Carriage Classic & Farrier Services Ad 9 WHC Calendar of Upcoming Events 10 WAMSTAR - To the Rescue 11 WAMSTAR - To the Rescue (cont.) 12 Equestrian Coach

Recommends Riders Stay Fit

13 Equestrian Coach Recommends Riders Stay Fit (cont.) / WI Legislation Resolutions 2017-2018 14 Equestrians, Trail Users Work Together for Safety 15 Equestrians, Trail Users Work Together for Safety (cont.) 16 AHC - Washington Update 17 WHC Ride Wisconsin Flyer 18 Thank You Notes 19 Classified Ads / Heart Horse 20 AAEP Foundation Thank You 21 SKMHTA Thank You Letter 22 Midwest Horse Fair 23 WSHCEF Pledge to Governor

Dodge for Improvements / WI July 2018 Fair Schedule

24 WHC Forms 25 SPECIAL CUT & FOLD!

Stick to the Rules 26 SPECIAL CUT & FOLD!

Stick to the Rules WHC District / WHC-CounciLetter Deadline

Page 2 July Wisconsin Horse Council

Our Mission Statement:

To represent and foster a unified equine industry in Wisconsin.

To promote the horse through leadership, education, service and communication.

And to take a proactive role in the future growth and development of the equine industry.

Membership in the Wisconsin Horse Council is open to individuals, associations, businesses, societies, or other entities whose interests are in line with WHC’s purpose and Mission Statement. Our member-ship year will follow the calendar year. Members will also receive our monthly newsletter where FREE classified ads can be placed and reasonable 1/4, 1/2 and full page ads can be arranged. The newsletter reaches 500+ horse enthusiasts.

The Council employs a professional Lobbyist who works with us on pending legislation as needed for the equine industry.

We are constantly working on adding new benefits for our members. Please feel free to contact us with your comments or suggestions.

Wisconsin Horse Council Executive Board 2017-2018

Executive Officers President - Nancy Edwards 262-623-9092 [email protected] Vice President - Katie Bachhuber 920-539-0601 [email protected] Secretary - Jill Feller 920-948-9502 [email protected] Treasurer - Ron Miller 608-873-3848 [email protected]

Executive Board of Directors Past President - Karen Kroll, 608-795-2321, [email protected] Director at Large to MHF & WSHCEF - James Harris, 608-987-3600, [email protected] Director at Large - Gail Seasor, 608-576-9429, [email protected] District 1 Rep - OPEN District 2 Rep - Holly McMullen, 715-351-0961 [email protected] District 3 Rep - Bonnie Shepherd, 262-670-1426, [email protected] District 4 Rep - Floyd Finney, 608-868-4543, [email protected] District 5 Rep - Linda Catherman, 608-432-2599, [email protected]

Office Staff Member Darla Schack - Newsletter Editor/Website Administrator, Administrative Assistant [email protected] P.O. Box 72 121 S. Ludington Street, Columbus, WI 53925 Phone: 920-623-0393 Fax: 920-623-0583 [email protected]

Midwest Horse Fair Megan Hanuszczak - General Manager [email protected] 131 S. Ludington Street Columbus, WI 53925 Phone: 920-623-5515 Fax: 920-623-5454

ATTENTION: Tear out page 25/26 and fold it in thirds for a handy brochure

to keep or to share. This month’s featured

brochure is “Stick to the Rules” Wisconsin laws on animal medical waste.

Wisconsin Horse Council July Page 3

What is the mission statement of the WSHC Equine Foundation? The Wisconsin State Horse Council Equine Foundation was created to better serve Wisconsin's growing equestrian community and to help that community realize its fullest potential. The Foundation is a tax exempt, non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization and as such allows individuals to make tax-deductible contributions to support Wisconsin equine projects. The mission of the Equine Foundation is to support Wisconsin's expanding equestrian community by funding: ....Educational Initiatives ....Equine Research ....Trail Development ....Youth Scholarship and Participation What is our relationship with the Wisconsin State Horse Council? The Wisconsin State Horse Council is our parent organization and the sole member of the WSHC Equine Foundation. WHC Board of Directors are elected to serve on the WSHC Equine Foundation Board of Directors, along with non-WHC individuals. The WHC was incorporated in 1972 as an advocate for the equine owners and industry in the State of Wisconsin. It has grown to become the focus of the equine industry in Wisconsin. The Mission Statement of the Wisconsin Horse Council is: To represent and foster a unified equine industry in Wisconsin. To promote the horse through leadership, education, service and communications, and to take a proactive role in the future growth and development of the equine industry in the State of Wisconsin. WSHC Equine Foundation is a federally approved 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation dedicated to the advancement of equine activities and the equine industry in general. The Foundation's main objectives are to promote education, research and development, charity, and scholarship opportunities for equestrians in Wisconsin.

Welcome to the Wisconsin State Horse Council Equine Foundation The bond between an equestrian and their equine is an experience worth cherishing; we are dedicat-ed to strengthening this bond and enriching the equestrian experience in Wisconsin through educa-

tion, research, charity, and scholarship. Visit our website www.wisconsinhorsecouncil.org – Go to the WSHCEF tab

at the top of the page

WSHCEF Officers & Board of Directors

Officers President Gary Jackson Vice President & Diane Sackett Secretary Treasurer Lila Lemanski

Board of Directors & Volunteer Team James Harris Mike McGowan Karen Meekma Sharon Hookstead Rich Ernsberger Lori Helmer Margo Miller Gail Seasor Dave Kluge Roxanne Kluge


Governor Dodge State Park Equestrians Announce Campground Plans

The Friends of Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Committee held their 4th annual Poker Ride/Hike fundraiser at the park on June 3, 2018. Over 80 participants explored a marked trail while collecting poker chips that were then traded in at the end of the ride for a poker hand. The top three hands were awarded cash prizes. This year’s first place winner was 9-year-old Megan Fargen of Lone Rock, riding her Quarter pony, Gorgeous George. This was Megan’s third year participating in the event. She also enjoyed the group’s Horsin’ Around Kids Camp fundraisers in 2015 and 2016. The second place winner was Cheryl Tersen, New Berlin, and in third place was Gina Barden of Fitchburg. Congratulations to all our lucky winners!

Following the ride, attendees enjoyed a delicious taco bar lunch generously provided by Jodi Fowler of Blue Plate Catering. Participants bid on a wide array of silent auction items. Thanks to the generous support of our great sponsors and participants, this year’s event netted over $7,000.

A very special part of the June 3rd event was the Friends official announcement of plans to build a new 21-site Trails End equestrian campground in the park. The current 11-site campground was intended to be a “temporary fix” until the campground envisioned in the park’s 1984 Master Plan could be built. Now, after more than 30 years, horseback riders at Governor Dodge can finally look forward to a beautiful new campground that will live up to the beauty of the park’s 25 miles of horse trails. The group’s goal is to begin construction in the summer of 2020, but to make that happen everyone’s help is needed to raise the necessary funds.

The Friends group has set a fundraising goal of $750,000 to cover the campground’s estimated $650,000 project cost as well as an endowment fund to ensure that future repairs and maintenance needs can always be covered.

The fund drive got off to a great start with the presen-tation on June 3rd of a gift of almost $70,000 from the Iris Cooley estate. This generous gift was presented in a brief ceremony following the poker ride by Wiscon-

sin State Horse Council’s Equine Foundation representative Gail Seasor. The Friends are delighted with the Foundation’s decision that the new Trails End Campground at Governor Dodge satisfied Ms. Cooley’s stated wish to support Wisconsin horse trails. Continued on next page...


...continued from previous page

Governor Dodge State Park Equestrians Announce Campground Plans

Construction of the new Trails End Campground at Governor Dodge State Park will benefit trail riders from all over Wisconsin and will allow many more to enjoy the beauty of the park’s horse trails each year. The 21 well-spaced sites and shared gathering spaces will enjoy a scenic location on the quiet north side of the park. With nearly double the number of campsites, from 11 to 21, the city of Dodgeville will see economic benefits as well, with many more campers dining out and purchasing fuel, groceries, and other items in town.

Future fundraising activities include Red Barn Blues on July 28th, at Shepard’s Barn in Columbus, WI. The free event, co-sponsored by the Equine Foundation, features horse related demos plus a concert by Madison’s own award-nominated Blythe Gamble and the Rollin’ Dice blues band. Proceeds from food and beverage sales go to the Trails End Campground fund.

Plans are also underway for an exciting raffle featuring high-value items such as free horseback riding adventures, with winners to be announced at the Midwest Horse Fair in April 2019. Keep us on your radar!

For more information or to donate to the new equestrian campground fund at Governor Dodge State Park, please visit www.GovDodgeEquestrians.com.


Pests May Bring Harm to Horses, Humans By Pat McKnight, Correspondent with The Country Today

Some of the smallest animals on earth are the deadliest. Insects such as ticks, mosquitos and even mayflies are instrumental in causing illness and even death in both humans and horses.

“Mosquitos are responsible for more human deaths than any other animal,” said Dr. Robert Stenbom DVM, senior equine professional services veterinarian at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health.

Stenbom presented a program titled, “Killer Mosquitos and Mayflies” at the 2018 Midwest Horse Fair.

Giving a condensed history of the mosquito’s evolution, Stenbom said the insect originated in South Africa and was well established in the Jurassic era.

“Mosquitos were three times bigger then than today’s mosquitos,” said Stenbom. “There are 3,000 species

and subspecies of mosquitos in the world and 150 in the United States.”

The veterinarian asserted the insects don’t want to carry viruses; they kill or infect other animals by transmitting viruses they unintentionally carry.

“The virus has adapted to have the mosquito do its work,” said Stenbom. “It takes more than a mosquito to spread viruses. The viruses prefer birds and will reproduce in birds. People and horses are incidental hosts.”

Birds are common carriers of virus because they migrate to warm climates where they are exposed to mosquitos year-round.

Mosquitos are likely to attack moving targets and can fly one and a half miles per hour. Only the female mosquitos extract blood from their victims. They need the protein in the blood to nourish their eggs. As the mosquito feeds, it transfers any viruses it carries to its blood-host.

“Mosquitos are very good at doing the ‘surgery,’” said Stenbom. “Most people don’t know they’re doing it until the mosquitos’ saliva is injected. The saliva has anticoagulant properties and is the vehicle for the disease the mosquito carries.”

Continued on next page...

Photo by Pat McKnight

Dr. Robert Stenbom DVM, Senior equine professional services veterinarian with Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, responded to a question posed by an audience member at his 2018 Midwest Horse Fair program about equine health issues caused by mosquitos and mayflies.



Pests May Bring Harm to Horses, Humans

Among the diseases mosquitos will carry and transmit is encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Eastern and western are two strains of equine encephalitis of most concern in the United States; there is also a Venezuelan strain. Symptoms associated with the disease are fever, depression, loss of appetite, weakness, irritability, aggressive blindness, excitability and sensitivity to light and sound.

“The disease is difficult to treat,” said Stenbom. “It has 75 to 90 percent mortality. Even if the horse pulls through, the animal is neurologically impaired.”

Equine encephalitis is a legally reportable disease and 11 confirmed cases were reported last year in the state between the end of July and Sept. 11.

Stenbom advised vaccinating in the spring so the vaccine can be the most effective when the virus is prevalent in the northern part of the country in the mid to late summer and during the fall.

“The vaccines work and they work very, very well,” said Stenbom. “It’s very unusual for vaccinated horses to succumb (to the disease).”

Mosquitos can also pass along West Nile Virus, a type of encephalitis, and again, birds are often serve as vectors in the life cycle of the virus.

Horses infected with WNV will show symptoms of difficulty walking, uncoordinated movements, head tilt, muscle tremors and the inability to rise.

Although mayflies don’t bit and extract a victim’s blood, they have been identified as a vector for Potomac horse fever. Horses become infected when they inadvertently eat dead mayflies, infected flukes from snails or other infected insects while drinking or grazing in areas with high numbers of the dead insects. In addition to the mayflies, other insect hosts include caddisflies, damselflies, dragonflies and stoneflies. Bats, birds and amphibians are also suspected of being carriers.

The symptoms of PHF include depression, fever, colic, watery diarrhea, abortion, laminitis and low white blood cell counts.

“Potomac is a mild to life-threatening disease,” said Stenbom. “This disease is an insult to the horse, not a fun disease at all, but not as deadly as others. The prognosis is good if the horse doesn’t get laminitis.”

Stenbom advised vaccinations can reduce the severity of the symptoms if horses do contract the disease.

Stenbom’s presentation was sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health.



Upcoming Events 2017

July July 1 Independence Day Open Show, Three Gaits, Inc., 3741 Hwy 138 West, Stoughton, WI 53589, 8am, Contact (608) 877-9086, [email protected] SANCTIONED July 1 Badger Horse Show Assoc. Open Speed Show, Rusty B Arena, W5641 Cty Rd J, Westfield, WI 53964, 9am, Contact Nola (920)858-2860, [email protected] SANCTIONED July 4 4th of July Parade, Old World Wisconsin, Jefferson County Draft Horse Association to participate July 5 Wazee Riders 2018 Horse Shows, Pole Bending & Barrels, 5:30pm, 388 Hwy. 54, Jackson Co. Fair Grounds, Black River Falls, WI, Contact Steve (715) 284-7004 or [email protected] SANCTIONED July 6, 7 & 8 Wisconsin Foundation Quarter Horse Association Horse Show, 7pm & 8am, Jackson Co. Fair Park, Black River Falls, WI, OPEN CLASSES ONLY - SANCTIONED July 7 Lazycreek Farm 2018 Speed Show, Claudia at (920) 349-3623 or [email protected] SANCTIONED July 7 Creekview Riding Center 2018 Open Show Circuit, De Pere, WI, Contact Noelle (920) 819-2954, www.creekviewriding.com SANCTIONED July 7 Marshfield Saddle Club Annual Open Horse Show, M233 Cty. Hwy. E, Marshfield, WI 54449, 7:30am, Double Judged, SANCTIONED July 7 & 8 Cindy Ishoy Dressage Clinic, Touchstone Farm, Brooklyn. Contact: [email protected] or www.wdcta.org July 8 Lazycreek Farm 2018 Pleasure Show, Claudia at (920) 349-3623 or [email protected] SANCTIONED July 10 Coulee Region Riders Club 2018 Speed Shows, 6:45pm, Briggs Road (McHugh Exit), Holmen, WI, Contact (608) 484-0662 or (608) 484-0829 or [email protected], www.ridersclub.org SANCTIONED July 11 Levis 2018 Summer Speed Series, 6pm, across from Levis Lodge Bar in Osseo, check our Facebook page SANCTIONED July 13 Coulee Region Riders Club 2018 Speed Shows, 6:45pm, Briggs Road (McHugh Exit), Holmen, WI, Contact (608) 484-0662 or (608) 484-0829 or [email protected], www.ridersclub.org SANCTIONED July 13-15 Dressage Clinic with Jen Truett, Heartland Equestrian Center, Custer, WI, Contact Judy (715) 572-0410 July 14 Washington Co. 4-H Twilight Shows 2018, Washington Co. Fair Park, 3000 Pleasant Valley Rd., West Bend, WI, 53095, 8:30am, Contact Sylvia (920) 539-5259, [email protected] SANCTIONED July 14 UMBHA All Breed Speed Show, Jackson Co. Fairgrounds, 227 11th St., Black River Falls, WI, 6pm, Contact Megan Voss (608) 393-1985 or Todd Waldera (715) 662-2661 SANCTIONED July 14 Clark County Pleasure Riders Open All Pleasure NCWHA Horse Show, 8am, CCPR Showgrounds, 1/4 mile south of Greenwood off Hwy. 73, West on Rustic Lane, Contact Kathy Lyons (715) 255-9281 SANCTIONED July 14 & 15 UMBHA & IBHA & All Breed Horse Show, Jackson Co. Fairgrounds, 227 S 11th St., Black River Falls, WI, 7:30am, Contact Megan Voss (608) 393-1985 or Michele Zimmerman (920) 988-9073, www.uppermidwestbuckskin.com SANCTIONED July 15 Badger Horse Show Assoc., Rusty B Arena, W5641 Cty Rd J, Westfield, WI 53964, 9am, Contact Nola (920) 858-2860, [email protected] SANCTIONED July 15 60th Annual Indianhead Saddle Club Open Horse Show, 1970 22 1/2 Ave., Rice Lake, WI 54868, 8am, Contact Em Larsen (715) 234-7574 [email protected] or Sheila Kisling (715) 651-1213 [email protected] SANCTIONED July 16-20 Heartland Horse Camp, Heartland Equestrian Center, Custer, WI, Contact Prairie (706) 308-7400 July 18 Levis 2018 Summer Speed Series, 6pm, across from Levis Lodge Bar in Osseo, check our Facebook page SANCTIONED July 19 Wazee Riders 2018 Horse Shows, Pole Bending & Barrels, 5:30pm, 388 Hwy. 54, Jackson Co. Fair Grounds, Black River Falls, WI, Contact Steve (715) 284-7004 or [email protected] SANCTIONED July 21 Showtime Farms All Breed Open Show, 2604 280th Ave., Salem, WI 53168, 8am, Contact Nell Tekampe (815) 790-4188 [email protected] SANCTIONED July 21 SMILES 34th Open Benefit Horse Show, English Day, 8am, West 20 Ranch & Saddle Co, W4812 Hwy 20, East Troy, WI, SANCTIONED July 21 Show For A Cure, Heartland Equestrian Center, Custer, WI, Contact Morgan (715) 305-0305 July 21 Creekview Riding Center 2018 Open Show Circuit, De Pere, WI, Contact Noelle (920) 819-2954, www.creekviewriding.com SANCTIONED July 21 Sheboygan Co. Horse & Pony Open Speed Show, Sheboygan Co. Fairgrounds, Plymouth, WI, 8am, Contact Wendy Krueger (920) 838-2589 SANCTIONED July 21 & 22 Capital Mini Event & Clinic, Horse First Farm, Brooklyn, WI. Contact: [email protected] or www.wdcta.org July 22 SMILES 34th Open Benefit Horse Show, Western Day, 8am, West 20 Ranch & Saddle Co, W4812 Hwy 20, East Troy, WI, SANCTIONED July 22 Pickett Horse Club Show, Flying Mane Arena, Waukau, WI, 8:30am, Contact Joan (920) 851-8211 SANCTIONED July 24 Coulee Region Riders Club 2018 Speed Shows, 6:45pm, Briggs Road (McHugh Exit), Holmen, WI, Contact (608) 484-0662 or (608) 484-0829 or [email protected], www.ridersclub.org SANCTIONED July 25 Levis 2018 Summer Speed Series, 6pm, across from Levis Lodge Bar in Osseo, check our Facebook page SANCTIONED July 28 Red Barn BLUES, Free Barn Concert 4pm-7pm with Blythe Gamble and the Rollin’ Dice, horse demos & exhibits begin at 2pm, Shepard’s Barn, 7556 Marshall Rd., Columbus, WI, for more info Facebook search Red Barn Blues, WSHCEF benefit with proceeds going to the Friends of Governor Dodge NEW Equestrian Campground July 28 & 29 Heartland Dressage Show, Heartland Equestrian Center, Custer, WI, Contact Debbie (715) 340-4762 July 28 & 29 Jefferson County Draft Horse Association, Old World Wisconsin, hay making July 29 Trailblazers Riding Club Open Horse Show, NEWPHA, Circle E Equestrian Stables, W1424 Cty Rd VV, Seymour, WI, 8am, Contact Shelley (920) 606-5230, [email protected] SANCTIONED July 29 Wautoma Open Speed Show, Waushara Co. Fair Grounds, 513 Fair St., Wautoma, WI 54982, 9am, Contact Nancy (715) 228-4641 SANCTIONED

WHC Horsemen’s Calendar of Upcoming Events


Southeastern Wisconsin mounted search team makes sure horses are ready to come…

To the Rescue By Carol Watson, Correspondent for The Country Today

The mission of the Whitewater Mounted Search and Rescue Team (WAMSTAR) is clear: to assist in the location of lost or missing persons in a timely and efficient manner with the use of well-trained and fully equipped rider teams.

Covering the Wisconsin counties of Walworth, Jefferson and Rock County in Southeastern Wisconsin, the group has been called out to in a variety of situations including locating “hikers lost in the woods, children who’ve wander off, and people with injuries,” said Sandy Olds, the group’s founder. “If the Sheriff’s Department, police, or any other emergency agency feels we can be of help in a particular situation, we want them to give us a call.”

Olds formed WAMSTAR in August 2006 after a child was reported missing from her neighborhood. “I was preparing for my daughter’s wedding when the Sheriff’s Department issued a code red for a 13-year old boy missing in the Kettle Moraine Forest near Whitewater Lake,” said Olds. “As I had ridden my horse in that area many times, I thought I could be of help.”

“Plus, as a parent myself, I knew I had to go,” she added.

Her daughter’s wedding preparations for the moment set aside, Olds saddled up her 10-year old quarter horse, Roz, and

headed for the search area two miles south of her home. She was confident that if the boy was lost in the moraine, she and Roz would be able to assist in locating him.

“Horses have a good intuition and can see up to a mile away,” said Olds. “Plus, they can go places All-Terrain Vehicles can’t.”.

Although the child was later found hiding in a shed near his home, Olds saw the value of using horses in rescue situations and, along with group of riding friends, she formed the Wisconsin Area Mounted Search Team. & Rescue “For a year, we researched similar rescue groups, set up guidelines, and established by-laws and a list of training needs,” said Olds. We were committed to having everything in order before we ever went out on a call.” Continued on next page...

Kim Sizer and her horse Blackjack participating in training with a drone. The mission of the Whitewater Area mounted Search and Rescue Team is to assist in the location of lost or missing persons in a timely and efficient manner with the use of well-trained and fully equipped rider teams.



To the Rescue

Indeed, commitment is one of the most important requirements for membership in the group as participants must not only provide their own horse, truck and trailer, but obtain certification in map reading, search strategies, and CPR. Horses must pass a 24-point training regimen that includes the ability to cross railroad tracks and rivers, climb and descend steep grades, and to remain under control in the presence of gunshots or fireworks.

According to Jelaine Goehl, the group’s former chairperson, “We do expect a firm time commitment from our members and won’t send anyone out on a search mission without extensive practice and training, including participation in mock searches and rescues Our goal is always to be well-prepared and not complicate an already difficult situation.”

The benefits of using horses as part of a search and rescue team are many. While horses don’t track scents like dogs, they do have highly developed senses of hearing, smell, and sight, and are acutely aware of their surroundings. “Horses will also instinctively alert on anything out of the ordinary, especially the presence of another human or animal,” said Goehl “Plus, they give a height advantage to

searchers who can see over small trees and other obsta-cles that someone walking can’t do.

Other advantages cited by Goehl include a horse’s fast travel speed and ability to cover varied terrain in all kinds of weather. “Our teams also receive regular training and participate in simulated rescue missions throughout the year,” said Goehl. “When the call comes, we’re prepared.”

WAMSTAR also spends a time getting the word out about the services they offer including a a community event called National Night Out. “We partner with law

enforcement, emergency personnel, and the fire department to promote neighborhood camaraderie in the community,” said Olds. “People learn about what we do, and will hopefully be encouraged to all upon us in the future should the need ever arise.”.

NOTE: Further information on WAMSTAR, including membership requirements, can be found online at www.wamstar.org, or by calling Sandy Olds at 920-723-9425. As a 501c Non-profit group, donations are always welcome.

Jim Sizer and his horse Jazzy going over a plastic tarp as part of mounted certification.

WAMSTAR heading out for night team training.


Equestrian Coach Recommends Riders Stay Fit By Pat McKnight, Correspondent for The Country Today

Horseback riders should consider themselves as much athletes as they do their horses. According to U.S. Equestrian team coach Daniel Stewart of Naples, Fla., equestrians are athletes.

“It really bugs us when people say we aren’t (athletes),” said Stewart. “Riders are already working out when they work with their horses.”

Stewart bemoaned the situation that too many riders have contributed to the misconception horseback riding isn’t a valid athletic activity. He related a story about a high school student who asked her principal if she could get physical education credits for riding. The principal wouldn’t agree to the request because he didn’t think horseback riding met the criteria for physical activity.

To counter the misconception, Stewart urged the horseback riding enthusiasts attending his session on rider fitness at the 2018 Midwest Horse Fair to be as conscientious about their physical fitness as they are about their horse’s conditioning.

“We know how to treat our horses as the athletes they are,” said Stewart. “You should never ask of your horse what you’re not willing to ask of yourself.”

Stewart coaches conditioning equestrian teams at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo., as well as riders in Europe, North America, United Arab Emirates and the West Indies.

His coaching success includes the World Championships and the World Equestrian Games. He also coached the U.S. Paralympic Dressage squad at the Paralympics in Athens, Greece, and has been a consulting coach for the U.S. Pentathlon team.

To promote fitness for riders, Stewart founded Pressure Proof Coaching Academy where he applies his Sports Science education in psychology, fitness training and nutrition. In addition to the training center in Colorado Springs, Stewart teaches equestrian competitors at camps in Lake Placid, NY, and at the IMG Elite Athlete Training Center in Sarasota, Fla.

During his presentation, Stewart recounted his astonishment of a familiar fast food franchise offering athletes free food at one of the Olympics games. Stewart stressed that horses deserve better than junk food and so should their riders.

“Give up food ending in “O,” said Stewart, listing off the brand names of chips and sweets readily found on store shelves.

Stewart challenged riders to pledge to embark on a fitness program for 21 days. “It takes 21 days to establish a habit,” said Stewart.

At a minimum, riders should be active 10 to 13 minutes three days a week. Stewart suggested one of the ways Continued on next page...

Photo by Pat McKnight

U.S. Equestrian Team coach Daniel Stewart demonstrated a fitness exercise during his presentation at the 2018 Midwest Horse Fair. Stewart urged riders to be as athletic as their horses by including exercise and healthy eating into their riding programs.



Equestrian Coach Recommends Riders Stay Fit

horse owners can fit physical activity into their daily lives is to park some distance away from buildings so they do more walking. He also suggested riders’ balance can be improved by simply putting on socks while standing.

He also proposed equestrian athletes incorporate fitness into their schedules whenever they are at the stable. In his slide presentation, Stewart showed examples of “fitness corners” installed at various stables.

“They can do sit-ups or wind sprints for 10 minutes at the barn,” said Stewart. “You just take an exercise and tweak it to look like a riding position, and make the exercises harder than they have to be. You don’t have to drive across town to go to the gym; you just don’t.”

Stewart demonstrated a number of exercises riders can do at home or at the stable. He had his audience get up and out of their seats to join him. Basing the exercises on the position riders take when mounted, Stewart took the riders on “posting trots” by having them rise up and then lower their bodies as though they’re in the saddle. He then took the exercise further by demonstrating how repetitions of taking the jump position from a seated position can be a strengthening exercise.

Along with showing how to use an elastic band around the legs to strengthen those muscles, Stewart used an agility ladder laid out on the floor and hopping over the rungs while in a riding position.

He also led participants in exercises for strengthening a body’s core and increasing stamina as well as stretching.

Stewart offers weekly fitness videos on his Pressure Proof Coaching Academy website. The website is located at https://pressureproofacademy.com/coaching-academy/.

Wisconsin Legislative Bills/Resolutions 2017-2018 Legislative Session

Assembly Bill 475 = Relating to: lighting requirements for animal-drawn vehicles operated on highways. (FE) PASSED

Assembly Bill 522 = Relating to: the rendering of first aid to animals by emergency medical technicians or first responders. SENATE VERSION PASSED

Assembly Bill 666 = Relating to: sexual contact with an animal and providing a criminal penalty. FAILED

Assembly Bill 697 = Relating to: limitation on animal-drawn vehicles and providing a penalty. (FE) FAILED

Assembly Bill 900 = Relating to: county registration of animal-drawn vehicles. (FE) FAILED

Senate Bill 386 = Relating to: lighting requirements for animal-drawn vehicles operated on highways. (FE) ASSEMBLY VERSION PASSED

Senate Bill 585 = Relating to: limitation on animal-drawn vehicles and providing a penalty. (FE) FAILED

Senate Bill 752 = Relating to: county registration of animal-drawn vehicles. (FE) FAILED

Senate Bill 802 = Relating to: sexual contact with an animal and providing a criminal penalty. FAILED


Equestrians, Trail Users Work Together for Safety By Pat McKnight, Correspondent for The Country Today

Spring is here, finally, and the trails are calling. As trail riders saddle up and head out on the state’s public lands, the Wisconsin Horse Council Trails Committee advises equestrian users to be knowledgeable about sharing multi-use trails.

The committee recently issued guidelines for educating equine trail riders as well as others using public trails about good etiquette while enjoying the trails. Respecting fellow recreationalists will help ensure the trails will continue to be available for a variety of users.

“We all seem to have an appreciation for public lands and want to enjoy and experience what these special places have to offer,” said WHC Trails Committee member Kricket Jewett. “Trail sharing provides opportunities for a wide variety of individuals wanting to experience the outdoors. Limiting or prohibiting any one of these trail user groups, reduces the number individuals taking advantage of these lands and may inadvertently reduce the value the general public places on the trails”

While the trails committee agrees responsible trail users, whether hikers, mountain bicyclists, equestrians or others have much in common, horse trail users should keep in mind that other users might not know how to interact with horses they encounter on the trails.

“Although horses were used as a major mode of transportation and necessity for Americans a century ago, today, it is common to find individuals who have never touched a horse or been around one,” said Jewett.

The WHC Trails Committee reminds riders that respect can go both ways. If riders extend courtesies, they are more likely to receive it. Education with friendly respect will diminish negative encounters on the trail for all users.

“Trail sharing can and does flourish when people respect each other and work cooperatively to keep each other safe,” said Jewett. “As users of these lands, it is our job to model safe trail sharing.”

The trails committee also wants non-equine trail users to realize horses are prey animals and their natural tendency is to run from anything frightening them. Such reaction might include a sudden spinning or rearing, which could unseat a rider.

In addition to the strong flight response when they perceive danger, prey animals’ eyes are placed on the sides of their heads. This positioning creates two blind spots. Horses aren’t able to see directly in front and directly behind their heads with the blind spot extending over their backs and behind their tails.

“Where do many trail encounters occur?” asks Jewett. “You guessed it, usually someone coming directly at or directly behind the horse. Additionally, horses are farsighted, so things up close are blurry. When a bicyclist comes around a blind corner and suddenly appears within 50 feet in front of the horse, the horse cannot readily identify what is heading towards it. Once the flight mode has been engaged it is almost impossible for the rider to control the horse’s feet.”

Although horses may be big and powerful, they are sensitive to whether the rider is anxious. That anxiety can cause a horse to be alarmed. A frightened 1,000-pound animal has the potential to damage nearby objects and injure other people, its rider and itself. Continued on next page...



Equestrians, Trail Users Work Together for Safety

Those who give respect are more likely to receive it. Respect and common courtesy can be shown by slowing down around other recreationists. The rule of etiquette is hikers, cyclists, and motorized vehicles should yield to horses. “Yielding to horses” means a runner will need to slow his pace or a cyclist to stop and give horses and riders time to adjust to their presence.

Bicyclists should yield to other non-motorized trail users, unless the trail is clearly signed for bike-only travel.

“Equestrians should allow faster users to pass,” said Jewett. ‘The goal of yielding is to make the act of passing safe for all.”

Non-equestrian riders are encouraged to make noise such as holding a conversation, ringing a bike bell on a blind corner or extending a greeting can help riders know about hikers’ presence. However, loud unexpected noises can startle a horse.

When they come upon horses and riders, hikers and cyclists should stop and greet the equestrians, speaking in a soft manner and ask the rider what would be the best procedure for passing. Talking in a calm manner, giving a wide berth and passing each other in a slow and relaxed manner provide the best opportunity for a safe interaction.

“If the hiker or cyclist is silent, engage the individual in a conversation,” said Jewett. “You may need to tell them to talk, so the horse can identify them as a human. Those with little or no equestrian interaction are often appreciative of a rider’s knowledge and direction for safe passage.”

Trail users are advised to not use headphones or earbuds while out on the trails so they can hear noises and be able to communicate with other trail users.

The WHC Trail Committee urges users to follow trail restrictions and use only trails designated for the user’s mode of transportation. When traveling on shared use trails, continually watch for other types of recreationists.

“It’s your responsibility to be ‘in the know,’ said Jewett. “Know which trails are best suited for different types of user groups and skill sets and select those trails/adventures appropriately. Learn how to determine when there are trail closures and follow trail rules. If you are unsure about where to get answers to those questions, contact the land manager for additional assistance.”

Follow trail rules regarding pets, especially if dogs are required to be leashed. This not only provides for others’ safety but the dog’s as well.

The trails in Wisconsin offer unsurpassed opportunities for enjoying the landscape, heritage, and unique beauty of the state’s natural areas. Users can help protect accessibility by respecting other trail enthusiasts and the trails as well.

“We are all ambassadors to an amazing place, one that creates a bridge from the built environment into the natural one,” said Jewett. “Helping encourage safety and courtesy contributes to keeping the experience ‘special.’”

Remembering common courtesies when sharing public recreational areas will go a long ways toward ensuring all users will have happy trails.


Copyright © 2018 American Horse Council Permission to pass on the AHC Washington Update to your members, readers, or others is granted on the condition that it is forwarded in its original form or directly linked with the AHC logo and a link to the AHC website.

The American Horse Council is a non-partisan organization based in Washington, DC that works daily to advocate for the social,

economic, and legislative interests of the United States equine industry.

June 8, 2018

Successful Barr Amendment Gives $5 Million Boost to Equine-Assisted Therapy for Veterans

On Friday, June 8, the House of Representatives approved H.R. 5895, the Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 En-ergy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs (VA) Appropria-tions Act. Per an amendment offered by Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY), the House bill increases funds for Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT) by $5 million. Specifically, the Barr amendment directs appropriators to “transfer $5 million from the VA’s Health Administration’s (VHA) Medical Community Care Account to the Medical Services Account for the explicit use for the VA’s Adaptive Sports Grant (ASG) program, equine assisted therapy.” On Monday, June 4, AHC sent a letter of support to House Rules Committee Chairman Pete Sessions (R-TX) urging the committee to rule the Barr amendment “in order” so that it could be adopted on the House floor. By way of background, Congress has already endorsed robust EAAT measures by approving in-creased funds for EAAT within the FY2018 omnibus. By approving the Barr Amendment to FY 2019 appropriations, Congress re-enforces an important commitment to our nation’s warriors when they return from combat. According to a clinical study conducted in conjunction with Columbia Universi-ty, an estimated 14% to 30% of U.S. veterans suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Congress can help mitigate PTSD by boosting EAAT. The U.S. horse industry employs nearly one million Americans and contributes $122 billion to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). EAAT programs not only provide valuable services for U.S. veterans, but the operations also support jobs for a growing number of working Americans, and “second careers” for horses who would otherwise retire from racing or other working roles. According to a 2017 eco-nomic impact study, EAAT supports more than 6,700 jobs and generates $311.7 million in annual revenues in the U.S. If you have questions related to AHC’s support for Rep. Barr’s Amendment to H.R. 5895, please contact Bryan Brendle, AHC’s Director of Policy and Legislative Affairs, at 202-296-4031.



THANK YOU…..

Dear Wisconsin Horse Council,

Thank you very much for your generous donation. With your help I am a step closer to following my dreams!

Thank you, Kennedy Hoch

I would like to express my deepest gratitude for being presented the Wisconsin Horse Council Scholarship. I’ve went to Midwest Horse Fair since I started show-ing horses when I was 8, and each year I am even more amazed than the last with all of the things one can l learn there. Showing through 4-H has also al-lowed me to make so many friends and gain valuable skills to take with me throughout like. Thanks again for such an opportunity.

Sincerely, Jared Quinn

Thank you for sponsoring “This Business Called Agriculture” booklet. I really enjoy teaching Wisconsin’s agriculture unit through this booklet. Our Tri-County students are so much more ag aware and smart be-cause of your sponsorship! - Jessica Rettler

Dear Sponsor, Thank you for sponsoring this agriculture book so it could either come to us or you donated facts so we can learn. Today, Thursday, May 24, 2018 we will be making butter and using bread products to eat it. Thank you for your sponsor. Sincerely, A Fourth Grad Student from Mrs. Weidners - Chloe Vangen

Dear Ms. Kricket Jewett, Thank you for sponsoring “This Business called Agri-culture.” The book was amazing and had lots of good facts. I learned a lot from the book. It was an interesting book. I learned so much about Wisconsin agriculture. A few things I learned were, in 1970 a farmer could only feed 72 people. Another fact is that in 2015 there was over 9,900 dairy farms. In 2015, over 62,500 acres of potatoes were harvested in Wisconsin. In 2015 farmers raised 320,000 hogs. In the 2000’s farmers fed 139 people. Thank you Ms. Kricket Jewett for sponsoring this book. Sincerely, Jenoc.H


FOR SALE:

1996 light Palomino Morgan Mare and 2007 Golden Palomino Morgan Mare. Both mares are good trail horses for any level of rider. Easy to ride and work with. Can be sold together or separate. For more information contact [email protected]. (J/J/A)

Meadowbrook Horse Cart; oak, easy entry lifting seat; used only three times; rubber covered wheels; versatile enough to be driven in the arena, on the trails, by any standard size horse; clean and ready to go home with you. $1200, Call/text 608-577-8468, [email protected]. (M/J/J)

Great Western Saddle for a Steal! Hereford 15" Pleasure/All around Western saddle for sale, new stirrup leathers and Blevins buckles, full QH bars, floral tooling, silver conchos and padded seat, never been used hard and tree never damaged. Fleece lining in good condition, fits many horses. Ready to be used for anything you want to do! $200. Call/text 608 577-8468; [email protected]. (M/J/J)

CLASSIFIED ADS EXCLUSIVELY for WISCONSIN HORSE COUNCIL MEMBERS ONLY!

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS in OUR NEWSLETTER! Ads will be posted for 3 consecutive newsletters. Subject to editing to fill space.

Ads must be personal for your horse and equine related items. Not for commercial/business advertising.





Foundation Pledges $70,000 to Governor Dodge Equestrian Improvements

The Wisconsin State Horse Council Equine Foundation has partnered with the Friends of Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Committee to support efforts to raise $700,000 to improve equestrian camping and trails at Governor Dodge State Park. To “kick-off” this fundraising effort the Foundation agreed to pledge the nearly $70,000 received from the Iris Cooley estate. Iris was an avid trail rider and requested that funds she left to the Foundation be used to support trail riding. The Foundation felt this project was a perfect match for her request.

The Foundation’s pledge was made public June 3rd, at a fundraising event held at Governor Dodge State Park. Gail Seasor and Jim Harris represented the Foundation and Gail presented a symbolic check to the Friends of Governor Dodge Equestrian Committee.

The next fundraiser - The Red Barn Blues is being hosted by Pete Lewke at his farm at 7556 Marshall Road, south of Columbus. This event will be held July 28th, beginning at 2:00 p.m. and ending at 7:00 p.m. Horse demonstrations including: Wisconsin Large Animal Emergency Response (WLAER) and Whitewater Area Mounted Search Team and Rescue (WAMSTAR). You won’t want to miss these fascinating presentations that begin at 2:00 p.m. along with other exhibits. Blythe Gamble and the Rollin Dice will play blues music from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Food and beverage, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic will be available for purchase from 2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. There is no admission fee, but bring your own chair and enjoy an afternoon of horses and blues while sup-porting a great fundraising effort. All funds raised will be used to support equestrian camping and trails at Governor Dodge State Park.

Wisconsin 2018 Fair Schedule for July

July 5-8 Marquette County - Westfield July 19-22 Dane County - Madison July 9-15 Sauk County - Baraboo July 24-29 Outagamie County - Seymour July 11-15 Head of the Lakes Fair - Superior July 24-29 Rock County 4-H - Janesville July 11-15 Jefferson County - Jefferson July 24-29 Washington County - West Bend July 11-15 Lafayette County - Darlington July 25-29 Columbia County - Portage July 11-15 Northern WI State Fair - Chippewa Falls July 25-29 Dunn County - Menomonie July 12-15 Blake’s Prairie Jr. Fair - Bloomington July 25-29 Eau Claire County - Eau Claire July 12-15 Lodi Ag Fair - Lodi July 25-19 Langlade County - Antigo July 18-22 Barron County - Rice Lake July 25-29 Monroe County - Tomah July 18-22 Fond du Lac County - Fond du Lac July 25-29 Racine County - Union Grove July 18-22 Green County - Monroe July 26-29 Polk County - St. Croix Falls July 18-22 Kewaunee County - Luxemburg July 26-29 Taylor County - Medford July 18-22 La Crosse Interstate Fair - West Salem July 26-29 Washburn County - Spooner July 18-22 St. Croix County - Glenwood City July 31-Aug 5 Wisconsin Valley Fair - Wausau July 19-22 Trempealeau County - Galesville


All full-sized WHC forms can be obtained at the WHC website, www.wisconsinhorsecouncil.org.

Wisconsin Horse Council SPECIAL CUT & FOLD SECTION! Page 25

Page 26 SPECIAL CUT & FOLD SECTION! Wisconsin Horse Council

District 3 includes the counties of: Brown, Calumet, Dodge, Door, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Outagamie, Ozaukee, Sheboygan, Washington, Waupaca, Waushara, and Winnebago

District 4 includes the counties of: Dane, Grant, Green, Iowa, Jefferson, Kenosha, Lafayette, Milwaukee, Racine, Rock, Walworth, and Waukesha

District 5 includes the counties of: Adams, Buffalo, Clark, Columbia, Crawford, Jackson, Juneau, La Crosse, Marquette, Monroe, Portage, Richland, Sauk, Trempealeau, Vernon, and Wood

District 1 includes the counties of: Ashland, Barron, Bayfield, Burnett, Chippewa, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Iron, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, St. Croix, Taylor and Washburn District 2 includes the counties of: Florence, Forest, Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Oneida, Shawano, and Vilas

Districts

www.wisconsinhorsecouncil.org

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WHC District 1:Contact - OPEN

WHC District 2:Contact - Marilyn Krueger [email protected]

WHC District 3:Contact - Katie Bachhuber 920-539-0601 [email protected]

WHC District 4:Contact - Karen Kroll [email protected]

WHC District 5:Contact - Mike McGowan [email protected]

CounciLetter Deadline The deadline for articles, upcoming events and

advertisements for the WHC CounciLetter is:

August Issue: July 15th noon

Articles must be equine related, may not be for commercial benefit and must be sent to us in a timely fashion. The

Editor reserves the right to revise or refuse articles. Ads and articles are best sent in electronic format (prefer MS

Word or Adobe Acrobat) to:

[email protected]

Office hours: Monday-Friday - 8am-4pm

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Important WHC Dates to Remember: July 4 Happy Independence Day! July 25 WHC BOD Monthly Meeting July 28 Red Barn Blues * Please check out our Calendar of Upcoming Events, which is included in each issue of the CounciLetter as well as on the WHC website, for shows, fundraisers, clinics, tack sales and more!

Documents

THE WISCONSIN STATE HORSE COUNCIL EQUINE ......20 AAEP Foundation Thank You 21 SKMHTA Thank You Letter 22 Midwest Horse Fair 23 WSHCEF Pledge to Governor Dodge for Improvements / WI