After many years without equine programming in Bracken County, the Extension Office launched a new Equine Education Series, addressing the needs of local horse owners. The response has been tremendous, starting with 4 attendees at our first session on equine nutrition and growing steadily. Sessions on equine dentistry, groundwork, and contest basics have drawn increasing interest, with our most recent session reaching 23 participants. Of those 23 nearly half of the participants were Amish which represents an underserved audience seldom reached by Extension in this community. 

This program, the first equine-focused initiative in the county in years, has not only re-engaged the local equine community but also served an underserved audience. Participants have expressed deep gratitude for the hands-on learning opportunities, with many learning new techniques and using equipment they were previously unfamiliar with. The impact is clear—horse owners are improving their care and management practices, resulting in healthier, better-performing horses.

Beyond education, the program has helped participants build a sense of community, finding friends who share their passion for horses. As a result of this camaraderie, a group is now planning a trip to the All American Quarter Horse Congress this fall. Additionally, we have an exciting upcoming session focused on dissecting a saddle, giving participants a deeper understanding of equine equipment and its importance.

With growing attendance and interest, the Equine Education Series is making a lasting impact on both knowledge and community building in Bracken County, rekindling a long-lost passion for equine education.