ELCR Newsletter - November 2022
In this season of giving thanks,
we are grateful for the blessings horses provide and for all
that work to advocate for them in our communities
across the country.
we are grateful for the blessings horses provide and for all
that work to advocate for them in our communities
across the country.
Did You Know You Could Help Save Horse
Lands While Shopping?
Planning on taking advantage of some of those upcoming Black Friday or Cyber Monday online deals?
On Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and throughout the year, you can shop on Amazon and a portion of your purchase will go to supporting ELCR’s work to save horse lands when you shop via Amazon Smile.
On Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and throughout the year, you can shop on Amazon and a portion of your purchase will go to supporting ELCR’s work to save horse lands when you shop via Amazon Smile.
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Simply go to: smile.amazon.com/ch/52-2139677 and a portion of your Amazon purchase will be donated to ELCR. Remember to Shop and Support with Amazon Smile! |
ELCR's 2021 Annual Report is Now Available
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Interested in learning more about how ELCR supports efforts to Save Horse Lands? ELCR's 2021 Annual Report is now available to view online. The report provides an overview of ELCR’s programs and services including our national land advocacy activities over the past year and a summary of our most recent strategic plan. |
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American Trails Announces the
Legacy Trails Grant Program
American Trails, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, has announced the establishment of National Forest System Legacy Roads and Trails Fund, and the Legacy Trails Grant Program (LTGP).
The goal of the LTGP is to support projects that restore, protect, and maintain watersheds on our national forests and grasslands. American Trails is administering this grant program, and is soliciting applications for funding, with awards up to $100K per project.
Learn more about the program here:
The goal of the LTGP is to support projects that restore, protect, and maintain watersheds on our national forests and grasslands. American Trails is administering this grant program, and is soliciting applications for funding, with awards up to $100K per project.
Learn more about the program here:
The application deadline for the Legacy Trails Grant Program is 12/15/22
Apply for the LGTP here:
Apply for the LGTP here:
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ELCR works through our Conservation Members and Partners to raise awareness of issues driving loss of horse lands and to support local action to keep land open to horses. Please join us today.
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ELCR is wholly funded by charitable contributions and memberships. Your donation helps us to expand our outreach and grow awareness about conserving land for horses.
|
Help ELCR by liking & following us on Facebook!
|
It is more important than ever to bring awareness to the loss of land for horses, and we need your help to reach as many horse people as possible! It is easy to help by simply making sure you like/follow ELCR on Facebook, and encouraging all your friends and family to do the same. After all, the more people we can reach, the more horse lands can be saved!
Visit ELCR's Facebook page |
Follow ELCR on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates!
The more people we reach, the more equine lands can be saved!
STAY CONNECTED
ELCR Newsletter - October 2022
New Online Educational Resource Available!
Equine Trail Easements: The Good, the Bad and the Muddy
Equine Trail Easements: The Good, the Bad and the Muddy
Equestrian activities often require access to significant tracks of land. This is especially true for equestrian pursuits such as eventing, fox hunting, endurance or even trail riding where access to contiguous parcels of land is critical.
In such cases, trail easements can be a viable option worthy of consideration to significantly expand equine access to both public and private lands.
ELCR's new educational resource, Equine Trail Easements: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly is a good primer on trail easements explaining what a trail easement is and its benefits, and includes some helpful tips such as how to approach and engage landowners about considering trail easements on their property, as well as other important factors to be aware of when considering trail easements.
Read the article here:
In such cases, trail easements can be a viable option worthy of consideration to significantly expand equine access to both public and private lands.
ELCR's new educational resource, Equine Trail Easements: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly is a good primer on trail easements explaining what a trail easement is and its benefits, and includes some helpful tips such as how to approach and engage landowners about considering trail easements on their property, as well as other important factors to be aware of when considering trail easements.
Read the article here:
National Recreation Trail Designation
Application Deadline
November 1
Application Deadline
November 1
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The 1968 National Trails System Act (Public Law 90-543) authorized creation of a national system of trails comprised of National Recreation Trails, National Scenic Trails, and National Historic Trails.
National Recreation Trail (NRT) designation is an honor given to existing trails that have been nominated and meet the requirements for connecting people to local resources and improving their quality of life. Today there are over 1,300 trails with this designation in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. A National Recreation Trail is a designated part of America's National Trails System. Each NRT must demonstrate that it represents its region, supports a diverse community, and is among America's best trails.
After an application is submitted by the trail’s managing agency or organization the trail may be designated as a National Recreation Trail by the Secretary of Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture if it meets the criteria. These trails are considered of local and regional significance. NRT designation promotes trails with the intention of providing recreation access to rural or urban communities, economic development through tourism, and healthy recreation opportunities.
Trails that are awarded NRT designation will be announced publicly on National Trails Day in June 2023.
An NRT webinar, presented by American Trails, provides additional information on the history of the National Recreation Trail program, benefits of the designation, and the application process. The recorded can be accessed at the link below.
National Recreation Trail (NRT) designation is an honor given to existing trails that have been nominated and meet the requirements for connecting people to local resources and improving their quality of life. Today there are over 1,300 trails with this designation in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. A National Recreation Trail is a designated part of America's National Trails System. Each NRT must demonstrate that it represents its region, supports a diverse community, and is among America's best trails.
After an application is submitted by the trail’s managing agency or organization the trail may be designated as a National Recreation Trail by the Secretary of Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture if it meets the criteria. These trails are considered of local and regional significance. NRT designation promotes trails with the intention of providing recreation access to rural or urban communities, economic development through tourism, and healthy recreation opportunities.
Trails that are awarded NRT designation will be announced publicly on National Trails Day in June 2023.
An NRT webinar, presented by American Trails, provides additional information on the history of the National Recreation Trail program, benefits of the designation, and the application process. The recorded can be accessed at the link below.
The ELCR Fall 2022 Newsletter Now Available Online!
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In This Issue:
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American Trails Announces the
Legacy Roads and Trails Program
Legacy Roads and Trails Program
American Trails, in cooperation with the US Forestry Service, is starting a new funding opportunity, the Legacy Roads and Trails Program. These grants will be awarded to non-profit stewardship organizations or local government agencies who will complete motorized and nonmotorized projects on National Forest System lands.
Projects to be considered must fit into one of the following categories: improve water quality, restore aquatic organism passages, preserve access, decommission National Forest System roads, unauthorized trails or previously closed trails, and/or provide for more resilient and sustainable National Forest System trails, trail bridges and trail infrastructure.
The application process will open in early October. For more information on this program go to Information on the Legacy Trails Program
Equine Land is for Everyone
At ELCR, we believe that land conserved for equine use is not only good for horses, owners, wildlife, the economy, and our environment but it is also good for the soul of every person who is fortunate enough to experience the land and the animals who live on it.
If you appreciate the value of conserving land for equine use in your community and beyond, please help us to continue our efforts to bring awareness of the important contributions that equines and equine land make to our communities and support efforts to protect horse lands across the country.
We invite you to join our growing community of supporters - because we simply can't do the work without the support of friends like you!
If you appreciate the value of conserving land for equine use in your community and beyond, please help us to continue our efforts to bring awareness of the important contributions that equines and equine land make to our communities and support efforts to protect horse lands across the country.
We invite you to join our growing community of supporters - because we simply can't do the work without the support of friends like you!
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ELCR works through our Conservation Members and Partners to raise awareness of issues driving loss of horse lands and to support local action to keep land open to horses. Please join us today.
|
ELCR is wholly funded by charitable contributions and memberships. Your donation helps us to expand our outreach and grow awareness about conserving land for horses.
|
Help ELCR by liking & following us on Facebook!
|
It is more important than ever to bring awareness to the loss of land for horses, and we need your help to reach as many horse people as possible! It is easy to help by simply making sure you like/follow ELCR on Facebook, and encouraging all your friends and family to do the same. After all, the more people we can reach, the more horse lands can be saved!
Visit ELCR's Facebook page |
Follow ELCR on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates!
The more people we reach, the more equine lands can be saved!
STAY CONNECTED
ELCR Newsletter - September 2022
Charles Fenwick, Jr. Receives 2022 Robert N. Clay Conservation Award
Charles C. Fenwick, Jr (Left) Receives the 2022 Robert N Clay Award from ELCR Executive Director, Holley Groshek. Photo by Mark Mahan, Mahan Multimedia
Charles Fenwick Jr. was recognized with the 2023 Robert N. Clay Conservation Award for his leadership in the efforts to protect a portion of Shawan Farms in Baltimore County, Maryland from the threat of residential development. The award was presented by ELCR Executive Director, Holley Groshek to Mr. Fenwick at the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) Annual Awards Dinner on September 10th in Lexington, Kentucky. The Robert N. Clay Award, presented annually, was established in 2014 as a partnership between TOBA and ELCR to help increase awareness of the importance of land conservation in the Thoroughbred industry and to serve as an inspiration to others.
Between 1982 and 1992, Baltimore County lost 16,000 acres of farmland to development despite some of the nation's strictest zoning. Concerned about the loss of local farmland, in 1997, area residents foresaw the possibility that the core of Shawan Farms could be saved from development and conserved as open space for farming and as an equine facility to support local equine traditions.
Fenwick, with the support of 19 neighbors, acquired the property under the aegis of the Land Preservation Trust (LPT), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation. An additional 175 neighbors donated funds to help create an equestrian venue, including a steeplechase course. Re-branded as Shawan Downs, the property is in preservation to maintain its agricultural legacy, allowing no new residential development with the facility developing into a first-class equestrian center over the years.
Today, over 250 acres are preserved as open space while hosting equine events including The Legacy Chase, The Green Spring Valley and Shawan Point to Points, Steeplechase Schoolings, The MCTA Three Day Horse Trials, The Junior Hunt Cup, and for many years, The Pony Club tetrathlon – with the addition of farming over 150 acres for hay. In keeping with the center’s preservation mission, no significant infrastructure is required to accommodate the equestrian facilities.
To learn more read the full press release by clicking here:
Between 1982 and 1992, Baltimore County lost 16,000 acres of farmland to development despite some of the nation's strictest zoning. Concerned about the loss of local farmland, in 1997, area residents foresaw the possibility that the core of Shawan Farms could be saved from development and conserved as open space for farming and as an equine facility to support local equine traditions.
Fenwick, with the support of 19 neighbors, acquired the property under the aegis of the Land Preservation Trust (LPT), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation. An additional 175 neighbors donated funds to help create an equestrian venue, including a steeplechase course. Re-branded as Shawan Downs, the property is in preservation to maintain its agricultural legacy, allowing no new residential development with the facility developing into a first-class equestrian center over the years.
Today, over 250 acres are preserved as open space while hosting equine events including The Legacy Chase, The Green Spring Valley and Shawan Point to Points, Steeplechase Schoolings, The MCTA Three Day Horse Trials, The Junior Hunt Cup, and for many years, The Pony Club tetrathlon – with the addition of farming over 150 acres for hay. In keeping with the center’s preservation mission, no significant infrastructure is required to accommodate the equestrian facilities.
To learn more read the full press release by clicking here:
2022 Anson W. H. Taylor, Jr. Memorial Scholarhip Winner Announced
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ELCR and United States Pony Clubs (USPC) are pleased to award the 2022 Anson W.H. Taylor Jr. Memorial Scholarship to C3, HB event rider and Atlanta Pony Club member Liesel Fazekas of Kennesaw, Georgia.
The scholarship, sponsored by USPC and ELCR in memory of former USPC president and ELCR founder Anson Taylor, Jr., is awarded annually to a current USPC member demonstrating commitment to horse land conservation. The award helps support and encourage the efforts of our next generation of land stewards. Liesel works on both her family’s farm in Vermont and in her local community in Georgia to promote appropriate land use and conservation. She is involved in a group called “Friends of Kemp Park” which helped to keep the park from becoming a residential area. Liesel plans to study Environmental Engineering at the University of Georgia. Full story available here: 2022 Anson W.H. Taylor, Jr. Scholarship Recipient |
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Farms Under Threat 2040 - State Level Analysis
Farms Under Threat is American Farmland Trust’s (AFT) multi-year effort to advance cutting-edge solutions for farmland protection. AFT completed an analysis of each state’s policies for protecting farmland and ranchland, promoting agricultural viability, and helping transfer land to the next generation of farmers and ranchers.
Each state faces a choice: let poorly planned development of this vulnerable resource continue or work to safeguard more farmland through better land-use planning and additional farmland protection tools. The AFT’s National Agricultural Land Network is currently hosting a series of state-specific webinars digging into the findings for 35 states from AFT's new report Farms Under Threat 2040. The spatial data and development scenarios presented will include this data helpful to planners, land protection practitioners, policymakers, and advocates as they strengthen and expand agricultural land retention and protection efforts.
ELCR has found these reports to be a valuable resource in better understanding the state of farmland in America. If rural sprawl accelerates, America could lose 1 million acres of agricultural land every year and over 24 million acres of land by 2040. But if Americans choose a better path, according to the report, and embrace smart growth and minimize sprawl, we can save up to 13.5 million acres of the nation’s irreplaceable farmland and ranchland.
Registration links for all the webinars can be found at the link below. Webinars are recorded so you can still watch even if you missed the original air date!
Farms Under Threat 2040 State Webinars
Each state faces a choice: let poorly planned development of this vulnerable resource continue or work to safeguard more farmland through better land-use planning and additional farmland protection tools. The AFT’s National Agricultural Land Network is currently hosting a series of state-specific webinars digging into the findings for 35 states from AFT's new report Farms Under Threat 2040. The spatial data and development scenarios presented will include this data helpful to planners, land protection practitioners, policymakers, and advocates as they strengthen and expand agricultural land retention and protection efforts.
ELCR has found these reports to be a valuable resource in better understanding the state of farmland in America. If rural sprawl accelerates, America could lose 1 million acres of agricultural land every year and over 24 million acres of land by 2040. But if Americans choose a better path, according to the report, and embrace smart growth and minimize sprawl, we can save up to 13.5 million acres of the nation’s irreplaceable farmland and ranchland.
Registration links for all the webinars can be found at the link below. Webinars are recorded so you can still watch even if you missed the original air date!
Farms Under Threat 2040 State Webinars
National Forest System Trail Stewardship Partnership
Announces 2022 Funding Recipients
Announces 2022 Funding Recipients
The National Forest System Trail Stewardship Grant program encourages volunteers from trail and stewardship groups across America assist with trail maintenance in National Forests.
The program is a collaboration of the National Wilderness Stewardship Alliance and USDA Forest Service with American Trails, American Hiking Society, Back Country Horseman of America, International Mountain Bicycling Association, National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council, and the American Motorcyclist Association with all participating in project rating and selection.
There have been 4 rounds of funding for this award. In 2022 they had almost $300,000 to allocate and organizers are hopeful to receive funds again for 2023. A call for applicants is made early each year. Past award winners have been from around the country and included equestrian groups, bikers, and hikers.
For more information on this award click the link below:
National Forest System Trail Stewardship Grant
The program is a collaboration of the National Wilderness Stewardship Alliance and USDA Forest Service with American Trails, American Hiking Society, Back Country Horseman of America, International Mountain Bicycling Association, National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council, and the American Motorcyclist Association with all participating in project rating and selection.
There have been 4 rounds of funding for this award. In 2022 they had almost $300,000 to allocate and organizers are hopeful to receive funds again for 2023. A call for applicants is made early each year. Past award winners have been from around the country and included equestrian groups, bikers, and hikers.
For more information on this award click the link below:
National Forest System Trail Stewardship Grant
Equine Land is for Everyone
At ELCR, we believe that land conserved for equine use is not only good for horses, owners, wildlife, the economy, and our environment but it is also good for the soul of every person who is fortunate enough to experience the land and the animals who live on it.
If you appreciate the value of conserving land for equine use in your community and beyond, please help us to continue our efforts to bring awareness of the important contributions that equines and equine land make to our communities and support efforts to protect horse lands across the country.
We invite you to join our growing community of supporters - because we simply can't do the work without the support of friends like you!
If you appreciate the value of conserving land for equine use in your community and beyond, please help us to continue our efforts to bring awareness of the important contributions that equines and equine land make to our communities and support efforts to protect horse lands across the country.
We invite you to join our growing community of supporters - because we simply can't do the work without the support of friends like you!
|
ELCR works through our Conservation Members and Partners to raise awareness of issues driving loss of horse lands and to support local action to keep land open to horses. Please join us today.
|
|
ELCR is wholly funded by charitable contributions and memberships. Your donation helps us to expand our outreach and grow awareness about conserving land for horses.
|
Help ELCR by liking & following us on Facebook!
It is more important than ever to bring awareness to the loss of land for horses, and we need your help to reach as many horse people as possible! It is easy to help by simply making sure you like/follow ELCR on Facebook, and encouraging all your friends and family to do the same. After all, the more people we can reach, the more horse lands can be saved!
Visit ELCR's Facebook page
Visit ELCR's Facebook page
Follow ELCR on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates!
The more people we reach, the more equine lands can be saved!
STAY CONNECTED
ELCR Newsletter - October 2020
The Resource - Fall 2020
In This Issue:
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Follow ELCR on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates!
The more people we reach, the more equine lands can be saved!
STAY CONNECTED
ELCR Newsletter - September 2020
ELCR and USPC Announce 2020 Recipient of
Anson Taylor Memorial Scholarship
Anson Taylor Memorial Scholarship
L to R: Jim and Barb Beamer, Pete and Wendy McAdams, Elaina, Macy and Ryan Grayson, Kara Echternacht, Margie Rennie, Pam Middendorff, Amy Grayson, Diane Echternacht.
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The Anson W. H. Taylor Memorial Scholarship is sponsored by Pony Club and the Equine Land Conservation Resource in memory of former Pony Club president and ELCR founder Anson Taylor. The scholarship is awarded to a current Pony Club member who has been actively committed to land conservation efforts. This year’s recipient is Kara Echternacht of West Chester, Ohio, a C-3 member of the Miami Valley Pony Club. Echternacht is attending the Fisher College of Business at The Ohio State University where she will major in finance, with a minor in data analytics. Read more about Kara's winning conservation project at https://elcr.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Anson-Taylor-2020-Scholarship.pdf |
ELCR Welcomes New Board Members
ELCR is pleased to announce the appointment of Melanie Peterson-Ramey and Warren Wilson to the board of directors.
Melanie Peterson-Ramey has a strong background in conservation and resides in Wellington, FL and Lexington, KY where she practices real estate and operates a sport horse farm with her husband. Warren Wilson, a resident of Escondido, CA and President and CEO of California Horsetrader, is well known and respected in the equine community and has a strong commitment to protecting endangered horse lands. Both are great additions to our board and offer needed local representation in equine communities facing land-related issues.
You can view their full bios at https://elcr.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/ELCR-New-Board-Members.pdf
Melanie Peterson-Ramey has a strong background in conservation and resides in Wellington, FL and Lexington, KY where she practices real estate and operates a sport horse farm with her husband. Warren Wilson, a resident of Escondido, CA and President and CEO of California Horsetrader, is well known and respected in the equine community and has a strong commitment to protecting endangered horse lands. Both are great additions to our board and offer needed local representation in equine communities facing land-related issues.
You can view their full bios at https://elcr.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/ELCR-New-Board-Members.pdf
New Article: The Right Place at the Right Time
by Jennifer M. Keeler for ELCR
For almost 30 years, Canterbury Equestrian Showplace has been a cornerstone of the local horse show community in Alachua County, Florida. But after changing hands several times over the years, Canterbury was in trouble and succumbed to growing development, being sold off piece by piece and replaced by new single-family homes until only a core 36-acre parcel of Canterbury’s land remained. But thanks to local citizens working together to preserve this land, along with governmental changes brought about in the 2018 elections, officials began to look much more favorably at the possibilities for the facility, and the Alachua County Commission ultimately voted to purchase the Canterbury Equestrian Showplace, renaming it as the Alachua County Agricultural and Equestrian Center. The property will now be the new permanent home of the Alachua County Fairgrounds.
Read full article here.
by Jennifer M. Keeler for ELCR
For almost 30 years, Canterbury Equestrian Showplace has been a cornerstone of the local horse show community in Alachua County, Florida. But after changing hands several times over the years, Canterbury was in trouble and succumbed to growing development, being sold off piece by piece and replaced by new single-family homes until only a core 36-acre parcel of Canterbury’s land remained. But thanks to local citizens working together to preserve this land, along with governmental changes brought about in the 2018 elections, officials began to look much more favorably at the possibilities for the facility, and the Alachua County Commission ultimately voted to purchase the Canterbury Equestrian Showplace, renaming it as the Alachua County Agricultural and Equestrian Center. The property will now be the new permanent home of the Alachua County Fairgrounds.
Read full article here.
Questions about Horse Land Conservation?
Grappling with a particular issue about your horse land, stables or trails? Don’t know where to look for the answer? Our FAQ section is designed to quickly link users directly to the most pertinent articles, tools and templates – even when you don’t know where to start!
https://elcr.org/conservation-resources/frequently-asked-questions/
Grappling with a particular issue about your horse land, stables or trails? Don’t know where to look for the answer? Our FAQ section is designed to quickly link users directly to the most pertinent articles, tools and templates – even when you don’t know where to start!
https://elcr.org/conservation-resources/frequently-asked-questions/
ELCR 2019 Annual Report
ELCR’s 2019 Annual Report, along with annual reports from prior years, can be viewed at https://elcr.org/about-elcr/financialsannual-reports/ |
2020 Combined Federal Campaign
ELCR is proud to participate annually in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) along with many state campaigns (SECC). The 2020 CFC runs from September 21, 2020 through January 15, 2021. If you are a federal employee, you can easily support ELCR by visiting: https://cfcgiving.opm.gov/welcome and using CFC Code #11250 or EIN # 52-2139677. |
Follow ELCR on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates!
The more people we reach, the more equine lands can be saved!
STAY CONNECTED
ELCR Newsletter - August 2020
Legislative Update - Great American Outdoors Act
Equestrian action makes a difference! Many thanks to equestrians who recently sent approximately 1000 letters to federal lawmakers urging their support for the Great American Outdoors (GAO) Act! Thanks in part to these significant efforts, on July 22, 2020 the House of Representatives voted in favor of the Great American Outdoors Act by a bi-partisan vote of 310 to 107. And in the final step of the process, on August 4, 2020, the President officially signed the Great American Outdoors Act into law.
The GAO Act, referred to as a “recreation package,” combines key elements of legislation long supported by the horse industry. This includes more resources for the backlog maintenance of public trails and full funding of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) – at $900 million per year - which supports conservation easements that promote riding. Incorporating provisions of the “Restore Our Parks Act,” the package creates a revenue stream to dedicate funds from energy development projects to support the maintenance of trails run by the National Park Service (NPS), Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and other agencies.
Secretary of the Interior David L. Bernhardt also announced the designation of August 4th as the “Great American Outdoors Day.” In future years, every August 4th will be a free entrance day to national parks and public lands to celebrate the signing of this landmark legislation.
Is there new or pending state level legislation in your state that has the potential to enhance or reduce equine access to land, facilities or trails? ELCR is interested. Please call or write and let us know so that we can keep others in your area updated and advocating!
New Webinar Recording Now Available!
Successful Models in Developing and Maintaining Private Equestrian Trail Systems
In partnership with American Trails, this webinar discusses how three different communities have developed and maintained successful equestrian trail systems on private land. Privately owned land is the most at-risk component of our equestrian landscape. Boarding barns, competition venues, trails, hunt fixtures, and hayfields are being lost every day as a result of development, misunderstanding of liability issues by new owners of land, and rising demand for land around urbanizing areas. Access to private land for equestrian use can be a valuable asset in your community and can result in not only a viable recreational trail system but even a corridor providing equine access to public land. Access to private land is an alternative to shared access on public trails as competition from other user groups continues to expand.
Read more and view the recording here.
New Article: Conservation Easements as a Tool for Protecting Horse Land
by Laurel A. Florio, J.D. for ELCR
A conservation easement, a primary tool for land protection in the United States for over forty years, is also a valuable resource in the protection of land for equine related activities. Landowners may reap many benefits from a conservation easement placed on their property. First and foremost, the perpetual protection of the property will ensure that it will remain in its current physical state. Secondly, with the threat of development removed, the wildlife habitat and natural resource values will be enhanced. Thirdly, the landowner can be assured that the property will be enjoyed by future generations according to his/her desires for the property. And lastly, depending on the state in which the property is located, the landowner may be eligible for state, federal and estate tax deductions. This article explains what every owner of horse property should know about conservation easements. Read full article here.
New Article: On the Right Track – How a Community Based Land Use Advocacy Organization is Making a Difference in Central Florida
by Jennifer M. Keeler for ELCR
Land use watch groups continue to form in communities across the US in response to the growing concerns related to suburban and rural sprawl. ELCR always recommends that our constituents form some type of community-based organization that can keep an eye on local land use and planning, share information with members, and work both proactively and in response to issues that arise impacting equine land access. There are other grassroots-based organizations that are also working to monitor and influence land use policies at the local level. Existing Organizations that don’t focus specifically on equine lands can still be extremely helpful to the equine community’s land use needs. Good city planning can result in the protection of agricultural, equine and natural lands. This article provides a good example of community-based organization dedicated to protecting horse lands in central Florida. Read full article here.
Successful Models in Developing and Maintaining Private Equestrian Trail Systems
In partnership with American Trails, this webinar discusses how three different communities have developed and maintained successful equestrian trail systems on private land. Privately owned land is the most at-risk component of our equestrian landscape. Boarding barns, competition venues, trails, hunt fixtures, and hayfields are being lost every day as a result of development, misunderstanding of liability issues by new owners of land, and rising demand for land around urbanizing areas. Access to private land for equestrian use can be a valuable asset in your community and can result in not only a viable recreational trail system but even a corridor providing equine access to public land. Access to private land is an alternative to shared access on public trails as competition from other user groups continues to expand.
Read more and view the recording here.
New Article: Conservation Easements as a Tool for Protecting Horse Land
by Laurel A. Florio, J.D. for ELCR
A conservation easement, a primary tool for land protection in the United States for over forty years, is also a valuable resource in the protection of land for equine related activities. Landowners may reap many benefits from a conservation easement placed on their property. First and foremost, the perpetual protection of the property will ensure that it will remain in its current physical state. Secondly, with the threat of development removed, the wildlife habitat and natural resource values will be enhanced. Thirdly, the landowner can be assured that the property will be enjoyed by future generations according to his/her desires for the property. And lastly, depending on the state in which the property is located, the landowner may be eligible for state, federal and estate tax deductions. This article explains what every owner of horse property should know about conservation easements. Read full article here.
New Article: On the Right Track – How a Community Based Land Use Advocacy Organization is Making a Difference in Central Florida
by Jennifer M. Keeler for ELCR
Land use watch groups continue to form in communities across the US in response to the growing concerns related to suburban and rural sprawl. ELCR always recommends that our constituents form some type of community-based organization that can keep an eye on local land use and planning, share information with members, and work both proactively and in response to issues that arise impacting equine land access. There are other grassroots-based organizations that are also working to monitor and influence land use policies at the local level. Existing Organizations that don’t focus specifically on equine lands can still be extremely helpful to the equine community’s land use needs. Good city planning can result in the protection of agricultural, equine and natural lands. This article provides a good example of community-based organization dedicated to protecting horse lands in central Florida. Read full article here.
Questions about Horse Land Conservation?
Grappling with a particular issue about your horse land, stables or trails? Don’t know where to look for the answer? Our FAQ section is designed to quickly link users directly to the most pertinent articles, tools and templates – even when you don’t know where to start!
https://elcr.org/conservation-resources/frequently-asked-questions/
Grappling with a particular issue about your horse land, stables or trails? Don’t know where to look for the answer? Our FAQ section is designed to quickly link users directly to the most pertinent articles, tools and templates – even when you don’t know where to start!
https://elcr.org/conservation-resources/frequently-asked-questions/
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With lots more online shopping these days,
don't forget that you can easily support ELCR whenever you do your shopping at Amazon! Simply visit: smile.amazon.com/ch/52-2139677 to ensure a portion of your purchases is donated to help #SAVEHORSELAND! |
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Follow ELCR on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates!
The more people we reach, the more equine lands can be saved!
STAY CONNECTED
The more people we reach, the more equine lands can be saved!
STAY CONNECTED
ELCR Newsletter - July 2020
New Private Trails Webinar July 30th
Mark your calendars! ELCR and American Trails will partner to provide a free webinar on July 30 at 10 am Pacific Time (1 pm Eastern Time) entitled Successful Models in Developing and Maintaining Private Equestrian Trail Systems. The webinar will spotlight how three different communities have developed and maintained successful equestrian trail systems on private land.
Special thanks to our webinar sponsor Areté Structures for making this webinar possible!
For more information and to register for the webinar, click here.
Special thanks to our webinar sponsor Areté Structures for making this webinar possible!
For more information and to register for the webinar, click here.
Farms Under Threat: The State of the States Webinars
The American Farmland Trust's National Agricultural Land Network is continuing to host a series of state webinars presenting the findings from the "Farms Under Threat: The State of the States" study. These webinars are free and open to anyone with an interest in learning more: https://farmland.org/farms-under-threat-state-based-webinars/
Full study findings are available here
Previous state webinar recordings are also available here.
The remaining state webinars scheduled are as follows:
Full study findings are available here
Previous state webinar recordings are also available here.
The remaining state webinars scheduled are as follows:
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July 7 – Minnesota
July 8 – South Carolina July 9 – Colorado July 10 – Tennessee |
July 13 – Hawaii
July 14 - Arkansas July 15 - Maine July 16 - New Hampshire |
July 17 - Vermont
July 20 - Connecticut July 21 - Massachusetts July 22 - Rhode Island |
Legislative Update - Great American Outdoors Act
Many thanks to equestrians who recently sent approximately 550 letters to federal lawmakers urging their support for the Great American Outdoors (GAO) Act! Thanks in part to these significant efforts, on June 17th, 2020 the Senate voted in favor of the Great American Outdoors Act by an overwhelming, bi-partisan vote of 73 to 25.
The GAO Act, referred to as a “recreation package,” combines key elements of legislation long supported by the horse industry. This includes more resources for the backlog maintenance of public trails and full funding of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) – at $900 million per year - which supports conservation easements that promote riding. Incorporating provisions of the “Restore Our Parks Act,” the package creates a revenue stream to dedicate funds from energy development projects to support the maintenance of trails run by the National Park Service (NPS), Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and other agencies. Stay tuned for updates related to next steps to assure the bill becomes law.
Is there new or pending state level legislation in your state that has the potential to enhance or reduce equine access to land, facilities or trails? ELCR is interested. Please call or write and let us know so that we can keep others in your area updated and advocating!
The GAO Act, referred to as a “recreation package,” combines key elements of legislation long supported by the horse industry. This includes more resources for the backlog maintenance of public trails and full funding of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) – at $900 million per year - which supports conservation easements that promote riding. Incorporating provisions of the “Restore Our Parks Act,” the package creates a revenue stream to dedicate funds from energy development projects to support the maintenance of trails run by the National Park Service (NPS), Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and other agencies. Stay tuned for updates related to next steps to assure the bill becomes law.
Is there new or pending state level legislation in your state that has the potential to enhance or reduce equine access to land, facilities or trails? ELCR is interested. Please call or write and let us know so that we can keep others in your area updated and advocating!
Follow ELCR on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates!
The more people we reach, the more equine lands can be saved!
STAY CONNECTED
The more people we reach, the more equine lands can be saved!
STAY CONNECTED
Farms Under Threat: The State of the States Webinars
How threatened is your state’s agricultural land? What is your state doing to protect it? A new study from our conservation partner American Farmland Trust, “Farms Under Threat: The State of the States” provides groundbreaking new data that answer these questions and more! The study findings can be viewed here.
The American Farmland Trust's National Agricultural Land Network is also hosting a series of state webinars presenting the findings for 28 states. These webinars are free and open to anyone with an interest in learning more:
https://farmland.org/farms-under-threat-state-based-webinars/
The remaining state webinars scheduled for June and July are as follows:
The American Farmland Trust's National Agricultural Land Network is also hosting a series of state webinars presenting the findings for 28 states. These webinars are free and open to anyone with an interest in learning more:
https://farmland.org/farms-under-threat-state-based-webinars/
The remaining state webinars scheduled for June and July are as follows:
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June 8 - Pennsylvania
June 9 – North Carolina June 10- New Jersey June 11- Delaware June 12- Texas June 15 – California June 16 – West Virginia June 17 – Maryland June 18 – Kentucky June 19 – Washington |
June 22 – Ohio
June 23 – Alabama June 24 – Wisconsin June 25 – Virginia June 26 – Florida June 29 – Louisiana June 30 – Illinois July 1 – Oregon July 2 – Mississippi |
July 7 – Minnesota
July 8 – South Carolina July 9 – Colorado July 10 – Tennessee July 13 – Hawaii July 14 - Arkansas |
Legislative Updates
Great American Outdoors Act 2020
Thanks in large part to advocacy on the part of the horse industry and its allies, federal lawmakers have prioritized land conservation and trails maintenance backlog issues for the summer legislative session. On May 6, 2020, the American Horse Council, American Sportfishing Association, American Trails and more than 25 other members of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) sent a letter to Congress urging lawmakers to pass the “Great American Outdoors Act” (S. 3422), a bill that would fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and provide resources to address the backlog in trails maintenance projects on public lands. As you recall, members of the horse industry have submitted more than 200 letters to Congress urging support for trails legislation, especially the “Restore Our Parks Act of 2019” (ROPA) (H.R.1225/S.500).
Stay tuned for an “action alert” and next steps urging quick passage of this important recreation package once we learn more about scheduled floor time in June for S. 3422.
Thanks in large part to advocacy on the part of the horse industry and its allies, federal lawmakers have prioritized land conservation and trails maintenance backlog issues for the summer legislative session. On May 6, 2020, the American Horse Council, American Sportfishing Association, American Trails and more than 25 other members of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) sent a letter to Congress urging lawmakers to pass the “Great American Outdoors Act” (S. 3422), a bill that would fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and provide resources to address the backlog in trails maintenance projects on public lands. As you recall, members of the horse industry have submitted more than 200 letters to Congress urging support for trails legislation, especially the “Restore Our Parks Act of 2019” (ROPA) (H.R.1225/S.500).
Stay tuned for an “action alert” and next steps urging quick passage of this important recreation package once we learn more about scheduled floor time in June for S. 3422.
Agreement reached on Farmland Preservation Area in Marion County, FL
Horses, horse farms and the horse industry create the character and culture that define Ocala/Marion County. The vision and mission of Horse Farms Forever is to ensure this ‘sense of place’ is protected for future generations, especially the Farmland Preservation Area located in northwest Marion County.
Recently, Horse Farms Forever expressed its concern about two proposed changes to the Farmland Preservation Area that were included in the amendment to the County’s comprehensive plan requested by the Golden Ocala-World Equestrian Center organization. The first request was to move the boundary of the Farmland Preservation Area and the second request was to apply a newly created land use designation called WEC to rural property inside the Farmland Preservation Area.
Horse Farms Forever was able to reach an agreement with the leadership of the GO-WEC organization regarding its concerns and as a result of this agreement, is enthusiastically advocating for approval of the revised amendment. This agreement will preserve the Farmland Preservation Area boundary and permit only equestrian-related uses on the property located within it.
Well done Horse Farms Forever and Golden Ocala World Equestrian Center! Join us in thanking them for their spirit of cooperation and shared respect for the integrity of the Farmland Preservation Area in Marion County, FL. https://www.horsefarmsforever.com/thank-you-go-wec-for-coming-to-the-table/
Is there new or pending state level legislation in your state that has the potential to enhance or reduce equine access to land, facilities or trails? ELCR is interested. Please call or write and let us know so that we can keep others in your area updated and advocating!
Follow ELCR on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates!
The more people we reach, the more equine lands can be saved!
STAY CONNECTED
The more people we reach, the more equine lands can be saved!
STAY CONNECTED
For previous newsletters visit ELCR - https://elcr.org/whats-new/elcr-newsletter/
Roaring Fork Valley Horse Council
P.O. Box 127, Snowmass, Colorado 81654
* 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization *
rfvhc.colorado@gmail.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/keephorsesontrails/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/rfvhc/