Horses are an important part of the agricultural economy in Kentucky and the Caldwell County area has numerous working quarter horse farms that greatly add a to the local economy. In addition to the economic value of the horse industry, they hold a significant social value and western pleasure horse clientele make up the largest percentage and many horse owners are turning to the horse as a means of family recreation.  Many of these horse owners have limited experience with horses and are often from a non-agricultural background. This group seeks basic non-technical information on nutrition, health care, facilities, basic training, and riding so they can enjoy their horses in recreational activities. 

This Fall, Agents in Caldwell, Crittenden, Livingston, and Trigg Counties worked together to host the Master Horse owner Course.  Three sessions were hosted at different county locations that covered important topics: health, feeding your horse, true cost of horse ownership, hay selection, pasture management and more.  21 participants completed surveys and 20 reported they learned a new skill, 15 planned to implement one or more new recommendations.  A series of equine programs is ongoing in this region to meet the need of this diverse topic.