Georgia Horse Council

News and Alerts from Around the State
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Full text for HB201 is available here. Visit http://www.legis.state.ga.us/ for the most up to date information on Legislative Actions.

Hello,
There are at least two trail workdays, or a 2-day event in one case, coming up. I will participate in the USFS workday on Friday, and welcome others who might like to ride along. Most of us enjoy a day hiking, riding our horse, or biking on mountain trails. They will not remain open without volunteer support. Here is another opportunity for you to help keep those trails open and in good condition. Gather a few friends and come out and enjoy a day in the outdoors.

Note that the Pinhoti Trail working weekend is really Friday and Saturday rather than the actual weekend.
Larry
Upcoming Multiuse Trail Workdays

For any workday bring work gloves, lunch or energy snack, and plenty of drinking water.


Bull Mountain/Jake Mountain, USFS Land, CTHA Lead
Diane Ayers leads the CTHA equestrian workdays on these popular trails west of Dahlonega. Contact Diane at dmayres@alltel.net. Meet in the Jake Mountain day use pa

· The next workday is February 5th, starting at 10:00 a.m.

Armuchee-Cohutta Ranger District, USFS

The USFS coordinates and manages volunteer workdays on trails in this NW Georgia district. Mike Davis is the ranger in charge of trail activities, and you may contact him by phone at 706-695-6736 or by email at madavis@fs.fed.us. The USFS provides all tools on their workdays. The next workdays are:

· February 4-5 – Working Weekend #43. The plan is to car camp out of the Bear Creek Camping area and work several sections of the Pinhoti Trail in the Cohuttas. Plan on meeting at the camping area at 9:30 am Friday and 9:00 am Saturday. Non-campers are welcome to join the team for either or both days.

Directions: From Atlanta-Take I-575/APD 515 North to Ellijay. Take Ga Hwy 52 West through Ellijay toward Fort Mountain. After passing New Hope Grocery on Hwy. 52 go 2 miles until you see the next paved road on the right with signs for Bear Creek, Zion Hill Church and Gates Chapel Church. Follow this road for 6-7 miles until you cross the Mountaintown Creek bridge. Don't turn onto the road marked East Mountaintown, stay to the left. After crossing the bridge you'll see FS Road #241 on the right with the sign for Bear Creek. Go approx. 1 1/2 miles until you reach the fork in the road. Turn right and ford the stream into the camping area.
As always let Mike know if you plan to attend one day or for both for logistic purposes. Should be a good one.


om their previous week’s trail ride. And, I could still go on adding names – I certainly don’t want to leave anyone out – but let me just say that everyone that was there that day and quite a few that weren’t – supported this event. Our thanks go to all.

Everyone can be assured the money raised from this event will be for equestrian improvements only – facilities and property - the funds will not be used for anything not directly related to equestrians. We are very appreciative of the funds that were raised. And I don’t want to sound as if I am diminishing the funds raised, but what I will remember and cherish most fondly from this event is the support and fellowship of all those that participated. Our staff here got to meet a lot of new people through this event effort and see a lot of folks that have become such good friends. What a great bunch of folks!

Okay, I guess you are wondering what the final tally is. Thanks to all as our total net funds raised, after deducting the required DNR daily fees, comes to $7,147.00.

Thank you!

Sincerely,

O. Lee Moon, Park Manager

Trail riders could aid state parks
By JINGLE DAVIS
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 11/12/04
Horseback riders could gallop to the rescue of cash-strapped state parks, say equestrians pushing for more riding trails and camping areas for horse owners and their mounts.

"Many of these parks sit empty during winter months, which is a perfect time for us to ride," said Gloria English of Conyers, who says even six to eight miles of horse trails could be profitable for parks. "We would use them and we would pay to do it."

In August, the state Department of Natural Resources, the agency responsible for Georgia's parks, began considering budget cuts that could result in the closure of as many as five state parks and historic sites. Since last year, the DNR has trimmed its annual budget by about 17 percent. Gov. Sonny Perdue has warned that more budget cuts are likely.

Horse-trail enthusiasts say the state could keep parks open and profitable by investing in trails. Typically, trail riders pay around $14 a night to camp with a horse trailer and ride in a state park, according to a marketing study done last year at the University of Georgia. Some private facilities charge $40 a night or more, study authors found.

Becky Kelley, director of the Parks, Recreation and Historic Sites Division of the DNR, said she likes the idea of horse trails in state parks but doesn't have the funds to invest in them.

She said she'll be glad to consider proposals from organizations interested in expanding trails in state parks, especially if organization members are willing to help construct and maintain trails.

Some trail riders are already raising money for trail expansion. Today, more than 125 horse trail riders will join a benefit ride at Watson Mill Bridge. Each rider will pay $20, all of which will be donated to the state park to help purchase land adjacent to the park for horse-trail expansion, English said. A few weeks ago, 75 riders attended a similar benefit at the Jake Mountain Wildlife management area in North Georgia, also to benefit Watson Mill Bridge.

The park has about 12 miles of horse trails and related facilities.

"Everyone who has ever ridden the horse trails at Watson Mill knows how wonderful they are," English said. "The only complaint Park Manager Lee Moon and his staff ever hear is that [the trails] are just not long enough."

A growing business

At the moment, only five of Georgia's 60 state parks and historic sites provide horse trails. Some are better than others, English said. Two of the state parks most popular with trail riders are Hard Labor Creek in Rutledge and Watson Mill Bridge near Comer. Watson Mill Bridge is one of the smaller state parks, with just over 1,000 acres.

Hard Labor Creek State Park, which has 22 miles of designated horse trails plus other amenities for riders and horses, has done well with trail riding, according to Bruce Roper, who has managed the park for more than 20 years.

"Our trails are very popular," he said. "We do around $90,000 a year in equestrian-related business."

The park offers a 30-stall stable, a riding ring and a separate campground set up around the stable so owners have convenient access to their horses.

"We get people from all over the southeast; Florida, Alabama, the Carolinas," Roper said. "The equine business is growing in Georgia."

In 2002, horses contributed $248 million to the state's economy. Last year, that number jumped to $376 million; an increase of more than 50 percent, according to Kent Wolfe of the University of Georgia's Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development.

Horses now rank fifth on a list of the state's 62 agricultural commodities, known as Farm Gate Value, above peanuts and peaches; long-time staples of Georgia agriculture.

Metro stables the most

The bulk of the state's horse population is stabled in Atlanta's suburbs, with Gwinnett ranking first in the number of horses. Gwinnett and five other metro Atlanta counties are in the top 10 counties statewide with the highest populations of horses.

Many suburban horse-owners — including English — keep a horse or two in the back yard, usually on just a few acres of land. Most can ride on their own property but many also enjoy trailering their horses to places where they can camp and ride, especially on weekends in spring and fall.

Even in heavily-urbanized Fulton County, trail riding is growing in popularity, especially in the northern and southern parts of the county.

Horse trails are in such demand that a Florida developer plans to build a public equestrian trail as part of the newly-approved Birmingham Crossroads project near Alpharetta.

"We listened to the community and this is what they wanted," said Chris McCoy, a spokesman for AG Armstrong Development Inc., of Tampa.

Fulton County is also considering expanding horse trails at the its 800-acre Cochran Mill Park in South Fulton and developing others at Birmingham Park, a relatively new, 200-acre natural park in North Fulton, not far from the Crossroads development.

Ellen Stara, a trail rider who lives in North Fulton, said there are hundreds of horse barns in her area and lots of riders looking for new horse trails.

Wolfe, a marketing specialist, said the Agribusiness Center did a study last year with 153 Georgia trail riders and found they were all seeking new places to ride.

At Hard Labor Creek, Roper said maintaining horse trails and cleaning up after horses takes time and money. Manure removal from parking lots and trails shared with hikers is a major expense, he said. In addition, he said, horse trails often need

t of Comer, was named for the covered bridge which crosses the South Fork River that flows through the middle of the park’s 1,018 acres. The covered bridge was built in 1885 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. At one time, there were over 200 covered bridges in Georgia - today, there are less than 15.
Ride Info: Nov. 13th ride is Rain or Shine. Riders must provide a Negative Coggins for each horse. Pre-Registration is required for lunch headcount. Horse trailers should use the entrance off GA Hwy 72 to avoid crossing covered bridge. Registration on Sat. is 8:30-10:30AM at the trailhead. Ride is on marked trails on your own before and after lunch. Cost is $20 per person with lunch provided on Sat. Additional $10 per person to primitive camp Sat. night and ride Sun. All trail clubs are asked to consider making this ride their monthly ride and to help promote this ride by including the ride form in their club newsletters. For a ride flyer/pre-registration form, contact any of the following:
Daytime(before 7pm) : Ellen Stara 770-475-3258
Evening(after 7pm): Gloria English 770-922-7995
Watson Mill Bridge State Park office phone(8-5): 706-783-5349
Park website: http://www.negia.net/~watson/
Park email address: watson@negia.net
Proceeds from another benefit trail ride, the annual “Chattahoochee Trail Horse Association Poker Ride for Trails" at Jake Mountain, Dahlonega on Nov. 6,2004 will also be given to Watson Mill Bridge State Park for the expansion of horse trails there. Flyers for both benefit rides can be found on the CTHA website: http://www.ride-ctha.org.

 

 

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Who do we need to write, call or send emails to? Where is the hold-up? Is it someone in State Parks or lack of appropriations from the state budget?

Cindy

Watson Mill Bridge State Park wrote:
Cindy,
I am bringing you up to date on the possibility of extending our horse trails through land acquisition. I am giving you an update on something we've talked about before. What you do or who you may decide to call having this information is up to you (should you decide to lobby for it). There is a 96 acre parcel immediately adjacent to us that we have known would be coming up for sale - we've known about this for awhile - now is the time. The seller is keeping it off public announcement for a short period to see if we can buy it. Essentially, the property is square with one boundary on the river, another on a wetland, another backed up to a local farm, and the other against our boundary on the green trail. It would be very easy and we could quickly hook up the logging trails on this parcel to our present horse trails which would give us more mileage and a good bit of trail running along the river. At any rate, now is a critical time - if we can move on this now we will be successful. If we don't do something, we will lose the opportunity.

he trail is located to avoid sensitive riparian sites, etc. It does take time to plan and build a trail, but when it is completed we can be assured that not only are we protecting the natural resources on the national forest, but that the trail is located in such a way as to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for our users. The unplanned trails do not meet these guidelines and as a result some are located in inappropriate locations and are causing damage to the resources. Further, since these unplanned trails are not on our system and in many cases we are unaware of their existence, we do not provide any maintenance on them. So, in an attempt to stop resource damage and better manage this recreation use, the new Land Management Plan calls for horseback use only on established, planned and designated trails and roads on the two national forests in Georgia.

Currently there are about 200 miles of trails that allow horseback riding. Riders can also use both open and closed roads on the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests, which total about 1,600 miles. Now I realize that this decision will not make everyone happy. I also realize that this may make riding less convenient for some people. But I do believe this decision balances the need to protect our Forest with our desire to provide horseback riding opportunities. Currently Forest Service managers are working through a trails analysis. This analysis will tell us where existing planned trails are located and give us a good overall view of distribution on a Forest-wide basis on the various types of trails. We can then make an informed decision about where additional trails might be needed for users. Our managers are willing to work with you as we complete this process to gather your input and hear your ideas on providing riding opportunities on our national forests. I appreciate your interest in this issue and look forward to seeing you out on the trail!

Please tune in next month for another issue concerning the four threats to Forest Health that we are facing here on the national forests in Georgia. Thanks for visiting our web sit and have a great day!

http://www.fs.fed.us/conf/current-events/briefings/200401-hbr.pdf

may be made at the time the equine is picked up.

For more information and directions to the location, call (404) 656-3713 (Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

Lexington, KY -- (Nov. 30, 2004): Do not let your horse throw a shoe between February 22-26, 2005, as professional farriers from across North America and beyond will be temporarily unavailable. Gathering at the Convention Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee, leading farriers and veterinarians specializing in hoof care will take part in the 34th Annual Convention of the American Farrier’s Association (AFA).

Drawing more than 1,500 participants—primarily farriers from the AFA’s 50 chapters—this annual event focuses on continuing education and features lectures, demonstrations, clinics, discussions, awards, contests, and more. Farriers and equine veterinarians will have ample opportunities to further their knowledge of anatomy, to re-examine basics, to learn new techniques, and to examine both theory and practice.

The educational opportunities are not limited to farriers and veterinarians, however. This year, the AFA also presents Horseman’s Day 2005 on Saturday, February 26. A special invitation is being extended to horse owners, trainers, and enthusiasts to attend Horseman’s Day. This eventful day will feature demonstrations in horseshoeing, forging, and anatomy, and include lectures concerning hoof balance and the AFA’s farrier certification program. Convention and Horseman’s Day attendees will also be able to enjoy a trade show featuring approximately 200 exhibitors, offering equipment, supplies and services for the farrier. The assistance of the Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee Horse Councils has been requested in promoting this special day.

With five days of non-stop educational activities, more than 50 lecturers and clinicians—from the United States, England, and Japan—will be hard at work. Attendees will have the opportunity to work with clinicians such as Craig Trnka, CJF, AFA President, the only ten-time member of the American Farrier’s Team and Billy Crothers, AWCF, a five-time World Champion Farrier.

Farrier certification, one of the cornerstones of the AFA, will be at the forefront of the convention. Many attending farriers will work in the anatomy labs and the newly expanded hands-on clinics to fine-tune their knowledge and skills in preparation for certification; others will take the written portion of the certification exam.

Contestants in the farrier competitions will vie for a coveted position on the American Farriers Team, attempting to secure a spot as one of four farriers who will spend the next year serving as ambassadors from the AFA to the world. Team members represent the AFA at competitions in England, Scotland, Canada, and other countries; additionally, they conduct clinics for AFA Chapters and for the horse-owning public.

Many members will also have completed application for the AFA’s Cultural Exchange Program and will interview for several opportunities available through this program. Members qualifying for this opportunity travel abroad on exchanges ranging from one week to three months, returning to share their experiences at the Annual Convention and other AFA events.

Craig Trnka, AFA President, refers to this event as “the premiere event in the AFA’s year,” saying that “it’s where the big picture comes together for the working farrier, where he or she can tune up and tune in to continuing education for farriers.”

The American Farrier’s Association is a non-profit organization with a mission to further the professional development of farriers, to provide leadership and resources for the benefit of the farrier industry, and to improve the welfare of the horse through continuing farrier education. For more information about the American Farrier’s Association, call (859) 233-7411, or go to www.NoFootNoHorse.org on the Internet.

American Farrier’s Association – Certification, Communication, Education, Innovation, Research TM

Click here for an informational Flyer on this event
For additional information visit the American Farrier's Association Website by clicking here

Dear Gloria:

What a tremendous weekend we had for our benefit event! In the beginning, I expected that maybe we would clear a couple of thousand dollars. We did quite a bit better than that (understatement). I would like to thank you for coming up with this idea and putting this thing together. You took care of so many details. A superior job was done! I appreciate Ellen Stara and Bobby Mitchell for giving so much of their time along with Jessie and James Parker for their help. I know there are many behind the scenes that quietly worked for this event – many of those same people made SETC such a great success. Just to name a few that made this event a success, Joan Grant, Betty Evenson, Shorty Gray, Audrey Hardin, Linda Kundell, Jesse Walker, Dennis Floyd, Gina Thomas, Eileen Kausner, Rick Jones and Rockdale Trail Blazers, Northeast Georgia Saddle Club, Darrell Henry and the Elberton Saddle Club, Georgia Horse Council Trails Committee, Ann Cofield and the Georgia Endurance Riders Association, Ronnie Pesserilo and Georgia Equine Rescue League, Gina Thomas and Elberton Trail Riders, Winterville Saddle Club, and of course, the Chattahoochee Trail Horse Association who gave us such a gracious donation frng="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%">

ATLANTA - Several state parks and historic sites will be shut down next year by budget cuts, but the Department of Natural Resources hasn't decided which, DNR Commissioner Noel Holcomb said Wednesday. The cuts were part of fiscal 2006 budget recommendations approved by the Board of Natural Resources.
Holcomb said he and his staff will target for closure facilities the public and the DNR could best do without, based on attendance and income figures.


"It won't be one of the flagship parks," he said. Preliminary budget proposals for this year had called for
closing some of the parks system's swimming pools and raising entrance fees. But late in the review process, the agency found enough money to avoid those steps. Holcomb said the DNR won't be so fortunate in fiscal 2006, which starts next July 1. To meet budget cuts ordered by Gov. Sonny Perdue throughout state government, the board voted to slash spending next year by $2.6 million, a 3 percent reduction from this fiscal year. "We've got to cooperate," said board member Loyce Turner of Valdosta. "We've got to live within our means."

Closing parks and historic sites would save $316,500, while a separate proposal to close some of the state's wildlife-management areas would save about $304,000. But by far the largest reduction - $927,000 - would come from the agency's Environmental Protection Division. Holcomb said most of that money had been earmarked for legal costs associated with Georgia's protracted court battle with Florida and Alabama over future water allocations. He said the state's lawyers no longer expect those funds will be needed. Despite the tight budget climate, the DNR is asking for a handful of spending increases, notably $250,000 to begin developing Georgia's first comprehensive statewide water-management plan. Holcomb conceded that won't be nearly enough, but he said it was important to put some amount in the agency's 2006 request as a starting point for negotiations with Perdue's budget office. Besides the facility closures, the DNR also plans to revisit parks fees.


The agency's staff is expected to present recommendations for entrance-fee increases next month.

By Dave Williams
dave.williams@graypub.com

Come join us for a great ride and meal at the Georgia International Horse
Park on Saturday the 23rd of October. Regions 3 and 5 are combining to have this Georgia Horse Council Benefit. Please click here for more information and here for a preregistration form.

Dawson Forest horse trails are temporarily closed due to storm damage..I talked to a WMA associate this morning, and she reported that the trails are closed due to unsafe conditions caused by downed trees and washed out roads. Please call the WMA directly at 770.535.5700 for info....the person I spoke with did not know when the trails would reopen. ALso, for Deer firearm's season, trails are closed the following dates Oct. 7-9th, Oct 22-24, Nov 6-7, Nov 17-29, Dec 1-4th.

Jake Mountain Needs Volunteers to Help Clear Trails Following Storms. I was just at Jake Thur - Sat and the road is closed going in via the Old Store. The road and bridge are washed completely out. You have to go on down to the paved NimbleWill Church Road and turn right at end. You can get to Bull and Jake parking lots via that direction.

There are ALOT of trees down across the trail, especially on Bull Mt. side. We had to bulldoze around them and some were more difficult than others. Also, soil has washed off the trails leaving lots of rock.

Monthly workday for the trails at Jake/Bull Mountain is this weekend (Oct 2-3). Workday begins at 9am Saturday. Meet at the Jake Parking lot and bring lunch and water (big tools are generally provided but bring loppers and clippers). Several of us are camping Friday and Saturday and all are welcome to come join us. Jake is a no fee camping area-there are no amenities for you or your horses except tie out posts. Directions are attached. Hope you can come. We really need your help and so do the trails (work them or lose them is the bottom line cause us old regular trail users just can't do it all).

 
Hello Everyone -

The National Park Service acquired more property along the Chattahoochee River a few years ago, not very far from their existing Bowmans Island trail system off Highway 20. NPS has been working on master planning this area using techniques almost identical to those of the forest service by identifying management prescriptions/zoning, and "alternatives" that define how the property will be developed (or not developed). Click here for a copy of the letter I received inviting the public to attend meetings next week or how to submit your comments in writing. Visit their web page and review all proposed "alternatives" prior to attending the meetings and/or submitting comments.

Cindy Farmer - GHC Trails Committee

Horse Trail Ride to Benefit Watson Mill Bridge State Park

On Nov. 13, 2004 horse trail riders are raising money to demonstrate equestrians’ appreciation for the wonderful horseback riding opportunities offered at Georgia state parks and specifically to show support and raise funds for the expansion of horse trails and facilities at Watson Mill Bridge State Park. All proceeds from this ride will go directly to WMBSP to help attain this goal. Currently, the park has 12 miles of horse trails. Everyone who has ever ridden the horse trails at Watson Mill knows how wonderful they are – the only complaint Park Manager Lee Moon and his staff ever hear is that “they are just not long enough”. (Many people do not realize that most horses can easily “walk” 4 miles in 1 hour.)
The state park, located 3 miles southeas9">

UPDATE
The Right to Ride bill (H.R. 2966) was passed today by the full House of Representatives.
This vote is a critical victory for the horse industry, particularly for recreational riders. It is a recognition of the unique place that horses and saddle stock have on our heritage and in recreation on public lands. This bill informs land managers that the use of horses on public lands is entrenched in the history of this country and there are groups of people across the United States and working on Capitol Hill that are keeping that history and tradition alive.

Gloria English writes: I just received a letter in the mail from Nathan Deal (my Representative from my district) thanking me for my input and he said and I quote:

"As you may know, H.R. 2966 would preserve the use and access of pack and saddle stock animals on public lands, including wilderness areas, national monuments, and other specifically designated areas, administered by the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, or the Forest Service where there is a historical tradition of such use."
He went on to say "As an avid rider who takes great pleasure in visiting our nation's public lands, I support a balanced approach to providing access to the visitors of these great places. This bill has been referred to the House Committee on Resources as well as the House Committee on Agriculture. As always, I will be monitoring its progression through the legislative process. To show my support for this legislation, I have signed on as a cosponsor, and I look forward to the opportunity to vote for this bill when it reaches the floor of the House.
Again, thanks you for sharing your views with me, and please continue to keep me informed about the issues that concern you. Input such as yours helps me to better serve the people of the Tenth District and out great nation."

So horse folks - this bill is still being discussed and if we want to "preserve the use and access of pack and saddle stock animals on public lands" we better start emailing, calling, or writing our Federal representatives now! If you have email - that would be best, as the mail is VERY slow getting to the congressmen now due to all the security. We need to thank the ones in my original email (see bottom of email) that are sponsoring the bill and then email your own specific representatives(House and Senate). The web site http://www.firstgov.gov/Contact.shtml can provide you with your Federal House of Representatives contact information and also your Federal-level Senators. WE NEED TO BE HEARD NOW BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE!


For once, this is SPECIFIC TO HORSE USE on Federal land - not any other user group - so it is up to US to let our wishes be known.


Please send this to every equine trail rider you know and get the word out that we need to contact our Federal representatives (House and Senate) and let them know how we feel. Time is of the utmost importance here folks - so do not procrastinate - email, call, or write your federal congressmen today - and we may get to keep riding in our national parks and forests tomorrow. (if you don't have email - write letters or make phone calls.) Thanks.

Gloria English
GEandTripleT@bigfoot.com

***

The Right To Ride Act preserves our right to gently enjoy riding in our backcountry, and for our children, grandchildren, and future generations. The Right To Ride (HR 2966) was introduced on July 25, 2003 by the author, Congressman George Radanovich. Co-sponsors are Mr Nunes, Mr. Otter, Mr. Doolittle, Mr. Hefley, Mr. Herger, Mr. Rehberg, and Mr. Collins. You can view a complete copy of the bill HERE in PDF format.

The key phrase in the Right To Ride is:

The Secretary shall provide for the management of System lands to preserve and facilitate the continued use and access of pack and saddle stock animals on such lands, including wilderness areas, national monuments, and other specifically designated areas, where there is a historical tradition of such use. As a general rule, all trails, routes, and areas used by pack and saddle stock shall remain open and accessible for such use. The Secretary may implement a proposed reduction in the use and access of pack and saddle stock animals on such lands only after

We need your support nationwide, from the local level to the federal government level, to ensure the Right To Ride passes into law. For assistance in determining your representative to encourage his/her support of our Right To Ride, click HERE. Send your request for support today!

To: AHC Organizations

From: American Horse Council

Re: Senate-Passed Tax Bill Reduces Capital Gains Holding Period for Horses

Date: May 13, 2004

On May 11, the U.S. Senate passed a huge international tax bill that includes a provision that the horse industry has been working on for some time, a reduction in the holding period for horses to qualify for capitol gains treatment from 24 months to 12 months. Senator Jim Bunning (R-KY) was able to include this provision in the so-called FSC/ETI bill.

All capital assets - with the exception of horses and cattle - qualify for capital gains tax treatment if held for 12 months. Horses, however, must be held for 24 months to qualify. The Bunning amendment would reduce the capital gains holding period for horses to 12 months, just like other business assets.

The principal purpose of the FSC/ETI bill is to repeal several tax provisions that benefit U.S. corporations doing business abroad that were ruled illegal by the World Trade Organization last summer. Those offending tax provisions have been opposed for some time by the European Union and led to the imposition of tariffs on many U.S. goods March 1, including horses to a limited degree. While it does not appear that these tariffs have been particularly onerous to U.S. horses, once the international tax bill becomes law the EU has promised to remove the tariffs. This would alleviate any concerns over effect of the temporary tariffs.

The House of Representatives must still act on its version of the international tax bill. The House bill does not include the reduction in the capitol gains holding period for horses. Any differences in the bills would have to be worked out in a conference with Members of the Senate and House and the final package passed by Congress before it could go to the President for his signature.

Your GHC at work!
We've been heard! As a result of requests that you contact Georgia State Parks to lobby for more land and trails at Watson Mill Bridge State Park, "the Division offices in Atlanta have been swamped and are aware of everyone's interest".

"On behalf of the Georgia DNR, we would like to thank you for your interest in the equestrian facilities at Watson Mill Bridge State Park. The case has been made for the need to acquire additional land for the expansion of the equestrian facilities. Our agency will do what it can to reach its goals throughout our parks division. There is no need for further emails regarding this particular issue. Thank you, O. Lee Moon, Park Manager, Watson Mill Bridge State Park"

Please everyone make the phone call(s) and/or send an email and lets get Mr Moon more land for more trails for us. The GA State Parks is an excellent place for us to put our efforts towards. Please notify your other club members of this matter ASAP.
Thanks much,
Gloria English
GEandTripleT@bigfoot.com
-----Forwarded Message-----
From: Watson Mill Bridge State Park
Subject: Action Alert - Horse Trail/Land Acquisition]

OK - everyone is always asking for more trails, so here's a public land manager asking for our support. As you know, the personnel at Watson Mill Bridge State Park have always been horse friendly, and most of us have enjoyed their facilities at one time or another. Right NOW is the time to help the Park Manager, O. Lee Moon, acquire more property for trails (as described below).

Please email Director of State Parks, Ms. Becky Kelly at becky_kelley@dnr.state.ga.us or call her at (404) 656-3530 and ask that Ga. State Parks appropriate the funds needed to acquire more property adjoining Watson Mill. Don't forget to mention the friendly and hospitable attitude of the staff there, how well maintained the trails are, and that the camping facilities already in place would see an increase in use if more trail mileage is added. You can also contact their Chief of Park Operations, Mr. John Thompson (404) 656-6564 or email him at john_thompson@dnr.state.ga.us

As you can see from the email below, time is of the essence. Please take a minute to express your desire to see more trail mileage at this beautiful state park.

Cindy Farmer

-------- Original Message --------
From: Watson Mill Bridge State Park
Subject: Re: Horse Trail/Land Acquisition

Well, there is money, as I understand it, for general land acquisition purposes. However, our upper management personnel always have to contend with how to prioritize this. Being a representative of the equestrian community, your input to them would carry more weight when it comes to the discussion of horse trails. You have met John Thompson, our Director of Operations, but at this point if you wanted to talk to our Director of the Parks, Rec., & Historic Sites Division, who controls those purse strings to a large degree, it would be Becky Kelley. This is a situation where money has not been designated for a particular parcel of land such as ours in advance - the property has become available and funds would have to be shifted around. Now is a very critical time because the seller will not wait long before putting it out to public availability. Our Atlanta office number is 706-656-2770.
----- Original Message -----
From: Cindy Farmer
To: Watson Mill Bridge State Park

PRESS RELEASE
Couple Has 19 Years to Think about Animal Cruelty,
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Says about Sentence


ATLANTA – Georgia Department of Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin said the couple sentenced in Elbert County superior Court on animal cruelty and related charges “will have 19 years, six months of it in jail, to think about what they did wrong.” Superior Court Judge Lindsay Tice sentenced Richard and Christine McRae each to serve six months in prison, pay $2,000 in fines and be on probation for 18 and one-half years during which they cannot own any horses or livestock.


The Georgia Department of Agriculture impounded 17 horses from the McRaes in January 2003. One horse was found dead on the property and one had to be euthanized because of its poor condition. Prior to sentencing, the McRaes turned the horses over to the department. They will be sold at auction in the near future. “Now they will go to safe, loving homes,” said Commissioner Irvin. “I am pleased with the sentence,” Irvin said. “I appreciate that the judge saw the need to bar them from owning horses or any other livestock during the 18 and one-half years of probation.”


Commissioner Irvin praised the people involved in the investigation and prosecution of the cases against the McRaes. “My staff documented everything and worked hard preparing for court. Sheriff Barry Haston and his deputies were very professional in handling this. The district attorney, Bob Lavender, and his staff brought all that hard work to fruition in a good presentation to the jury. Animal cruelty can be difficult to prosecute. It is possible when the investigation and prosecution teams do their homework and are as dedicated as these were.”
OPEN TO ALL EQUINE ENTHUSIASTS AND FREE OF CHARGE!!!

Informational Forum
"Regulatory Health Issues Confronting the Horse Industry"
Co-sponsored by: American Horse Council United States Animal Health Association The American Horse Council and the U.S. Animal Health Association are sponsoring meetings throughout the nation to increase awareness of the major regulatory equine health related issues confronting the horse industry. The purpose of these forums is to (1) provide equine enthusiasts with
information on proposals and current initiatives being considered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and national organizations, and (2) to provide a mechanism for the industry to raise other regulatory issues of interest or concern.

Southern Animal Health Association Annual Meeting
The Read House Hotel, Chattanooga, TN
Sunday, May 2, 2004
Agenda
1:00 p.m. - 1:15 p.m. Welcome Dr. Lee Myers, GA State Veterinarian Moderator
1:15 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. Update on Equine Infectious Anemia Controls Dr. Tim Cordes, USDA NAHP
2:15 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. Equine Viral Arteritis Uniform Methods & Rules Dr. Peter Timoney, Gluck Equine Research
2:45 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. U.S. Animal Identification Plan for Horses Amy Mann, American Horse Council
4:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Other Issues - Questions & Answers Dr. Peter Timoney
5:00 p.m. Adjourn

OPEN TO ALL EQUINE ENTHUSIASTS AND FREE OF CHARGE!!!
Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Tommy Irvin has proclaimed Saturday, April 10, 2004 as Steeplechase Day in Georgia in honor of the 39th Annual Atlanta Steeplechase held the same day at Kingston Downs (off Georgia Highway 411 between Cartersville and Rome).

This event, which benefits the Atlanta Speech School, will feature thoroughbred racing with four races over brush jumps. Total purse is $175,000. The top steeplechasers in the country are expected, and all races are sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Association.

Tickets are available by phone at (404) 249-8300. For more information, call (404) 237-7436 or visit www.atlantasteeplechase.org.

Proposed Adpot a Trail in Region 5 and Region 6

This is a brief summery of the Proposed Cedar Creek Trail System. Cedar Creek W.M.A. is located between Hwy's 129, 212, and Hwy 11 in the counties of Jones, Putman and Jasper. It is about 30 miles by road from the New Horse Camp. It is very easy to get to and has 8 Hunt Camps, ROCK CREEK, CULP, MATHIS, BIG OAK, OAK GROVE, UNION HILL, GLADY CREEK and HADAWAY Hunt Camp. The Proposed System will include about 60 miles of trails if all the trails are built. It will include 1 big outside loop with a number of smaller loops inside. All the hunt camps will be linked with the outside loop with the exception of HADAWAY CAMP we hope to include it in a trail linking the NEW HORSE CAMP and the Hunt Camps of HILLSBORO, CAMP SIX, DEEP WELLS, LUNGSFORDS CROSSROADS and O.I.G. CAMP. This was the original plans of Mr. John Moore who was the district forest manager when the trails at 1099 were built and we would like to see it completed. With the huge changes in the National Forest policies for the use of horses in the Forest and the lack of designated trails in the Oconee Forest this is a very important

THANK YOU for your response. Senator Williams pulled this bill on Monday following input from the industry!

Click here for the complete text of this bill

ATLANTA – “Horses will die, if this Senate Bill passes,” the Georgia Agriculture Commissioner said today about Senate Bill 572 introduced by State Senator Tommie Williams (District 19) of Lyons. “It guts the Humane Care for Equines Act by taking away our ability to rescue starving, neglected animals,” Commissioner Tommy Irvin explained. “I don’t think Sen. Williams understands the gravity of his proposal . He has no co-sponsors for the legislation and I don’t believe there is any grassroots support.” “We would have to get an inspection warrant from a local judge and local law enforcement would have to get a search warrant for every case. We would have to notify the owner who can designate their own veterinarian to be present before our inspectors and veterinarians can even examine the animals,” Irvin said. “Many times we cannot locate the owners for several days. Animals will die with this delay,” Irvin said. “Since January 1st, we have impounded 49 animals on the verge of death. Since the Humane Care for Equines Act passed in 1992, Georgia has been a leader in requiring humane care for horses and other companion animals. I would hate to see that destroyed.”


The equine rescue program operates without any tax dollars being spent to rehabilitate and care for the animals. The Georgia Equine Rescue League, the Georgia Horse Council and other organizations and individuals assist with financial support. In Fiscal year 2003, the Georgia Department of Agriculture Equine Health Section received more than 1,200 complaints about possible equine abuse and impounded a record 186.

*********************

Want to help?

At this stage of the legislation, we would encourage emailing, calling and faxing Senator Williams expressing disagreement with Senate Bill 572. Senator Williams is from Lyons, GA, so a contact from his constituents in that area will have a large impact.

Senator Tommie Williams
District 19
Georgia State Senate
327-A LOB
Atlanta, GA 30334
Phone: (404) 656-0089
Fax: (404)
Email: tommie@tommiewilliams.com


Additional copies should be sent to the following:

Senator Eric Johnson (Senate President Pro-Tem)
District 1
Georgia State Senate
321 State Capitol
Atlanta, GA 30334
Phone: (404) 656-5109
Fax: (404) 657-9727
Email: ejohnson@legis.state.ga.us


Senator Bill Stephens (Senate Majority Leader)
District 51
Georgia State Senate
236 State Capitol
Atlanta, GA 30334
Phone: (404) 656-0048
Fax: (404) 463-5220
Email: bstephen@legis.state.ga.us


The following text is from a video that can be seen at can be seen at
http://www.fs.fed.us/conf/current-events/20040212-hbr-video.htm
This is the script for the video presentation by Forest Supervisor, Kathleen Atkinson and is the latest policy of the National Forest.

Hi, I'm Kathleen Atkinson, Forest Supervisor for the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests in Georgia.This month, I want to share with you information about an important issue that has been addressed in our new Land Management Plan, which was released in January, 2004. This issue is horseback riding on the national forests in Georgia and how this use has been changed under the new Plan. We've received quite a few phone calls recently from concerned individuals asking about these changes so I wanted to take this opportunity to clarify what the new policy is and why we came to this decision. As I talk to you about the changes in horseback riding on the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forest, I want to share with you the fact that I, myself, own a horse and I love to ride on the National Forests. So, be assured that I do value this recreational opportunity professionally as well as personally, and will continue my commitment to provide for this use on the national forest.

That being said, the new Plan does call for stricter management of where horseback riding is allowed on the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests. Previously, equestrians could ride anywhere across the national forest…not just on trails or roads. What happened, however, was that we began to see a whole system of user-created, unplanned trails cropping up across the Forest. Now, one or two horses won't usually cause a great deal of damage to the Forest environment, however, when many horses travel on an unplanned trail, a great deal of environmental damage can occur. Before the Forest Service can build a trail, either horse-back, mountain-bike, or foot path, we are required by law to conduct a number of surveys to ensure that no cultural resources will be impacted by the trail, that no endangered species are present in the trail pathway, and that t" height="154" valign="top">
Following is the Pari-Mutuel Racing Resolution passed out of committee 2/19/04:

03 LC 19 5986

House Resolution 781
By: Representatives Jackson of the 124th, Post 1, Heard of the 75th, Williams of the 128th, Mitchell of the 61st, Post 3, and Stephens of the 124th, Post 2


A RESOLUTION
Creating the House Study Committee on Pari_mutuel Betting on Horse Racing; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia is facing a major economic crisis which threatens to continue for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, faced with a budget shortfall approaching $1 billion, the General Assembly is assiduously seeking and considering new revenue_enhancing measures; and

WHEREAS, the legalization of horse tracks in this state and pari_mutuel wagering on horse racing may be an additional source of revenue that would help in remedying the current budget problems and in restoring Georgia to a sound financial base; and

WHEREAS, the financial implications for the state of such legislative action deserve to be considered and studied.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that there is created the House Study Committee on Pari-Mutuel Betting on Horse Racing to be composed of five members of the House of Representatives to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives. The Speaker shall designate a member of the committee as chairperson of the committee. The chairperson shall call all meetings of the committee.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the committee shall undertake a study of the above issues and recommend any actions or legislation which the committee deems necessary or appropriate. The committee may conduct such meetings at such places and at such times as it may deem necessary or convenient to enable it to exercise fully and effectively its powers, perform its duties, and accomplish the objectives and purposes of this resolution. The members of the committee shall receive the allowances authorized for legislative members of interim legislative committees but shall receive the same for not more than five days unless additional days are authorized. The funds necessary to carry out the provisions of this resolution shall come from the funds appropriated to the House of Representatives. In the event the committee makes a report of its findings and recommendations, with suggestions for proposed legislation, if any, such report shall be made on or before December 31, 2003. The committee shall stand abolished on December 31, 2003.
Subject: ARRA - Write to Your Senators Today!

Americans for Responsible Recreational Access

Recreational Trails Program
In early February, the Senate will debate and vote on the legislation that funds the Recreational Trails Program. Literally millions of Americans have benefited from the trails for motorized and non-motorized recreation that have been developed and maintained in every state of the union through this program. For those of us who enjoy trail-based recreation, be it on hiking, biking, ATV, off-highway motorcycles, snowmobile, equestrian, cross-county skiing or any other type of trail, this is one of the most crucial issues that the Senate will act upon this year which directly affects you! Write to your Senators today! Tell your Senators that you support funding for the Recreational Trails Program and that they should support the SAFETEA legislation. Let your Senators know that you support investing money from taxes on gasoline being used in off-highway vehicles to improve the safety, construction and maintenance of recreational trails through the Recreational Trails Program.

 

 


Take Action!
Instructions: Click here to take action on this issue

Tell-A-Friend:
Visit the web address below to tell your friends to write to their Senators today asking them to support funding for the Recreational Trails Program. Click here toTell-a-Friend!

ce="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">What's At Stake:
In early February, the Senate will debate and vote on the legislation that funds the Recreational Trails Program. Literally millions of Americans have benefited from the trails for motorized and non-motorized recreation that have been developed and maintained in every state of the union through this program. For those of us who enjoy trail-based recreation, be it on hiking, biking, ATV, off-highway motorcycles, snowmobile, equestrian, cross-county skiing or any other type of trail, this is one of the most crucial issues that the Senate will act upon this year which directly affects you! Tell your Senators that you support funding for the Recreational Trails Program and that they should support the SAFETEA legislation. Let your Senators know that you support investing money from taxes on gasoline being used in off-highway vehicles to improve the safety, construction and maintenance of recreational trails through the Recreational Trails Program.

Campaign Expiration Date:
February 1, 2004

Tuesday, January 13, 2004

Jim:
This afternoon Dr. Myers, Richard Jones, and myself attended the year's first meeting of the House Ag committee. HB 941, GHC sponsored legislation providing stable owners with lien authority, was brought before the committee for discussion. Both Dr. Myers and Richard spoke on behalf of the bill and pledged GHC's endorsement. They both did an outstanding job of representing this bill to the committee. Chairman Ray agreed to place the legislation in a study committee for additional input and minor revisions that we agreed upon. Representative Ann Purcell of Rincon is the primary sponsor of the bill and will head the study committee. We expect the study committee to meet on this bill very soon as Rep. Purcell would prefer to move the legislation out of committee as soon as possible. This is a great opportunity for our organization, not only in terms of supporting meaningful legislation, but also in raising our profile as a legislative voice for the industry.

There is a considerable amount of work and planning left to be done to get HB 941 to the Governor's desk, however, by activating our members and stable operators to get involved in this initiative we stand a good chance at getting this bill enacted into state law. Please help me in distributing this update to GHC members and stakeholders.
Thanks,
Bo

Friday, January 16, 2004 - This morning the HB 941 House Ad Sub-committee approved the bill with minor wording changes. Both Dr. Myers and Richard Jones were on hand to assist committee members in structuring the new language. The bill will now be sent back to the full Ag committee for their approval. Their next meeting is scheduled for Monday - January 26th. Today's success is just one of many hurdles the bill must go through but it is moving and being received favorably by legislators. I have included the following link to allow members to track HB 941's progress, go to http://www.legis.state.ga.us/ and type in the bill number. Let's continue to stay informed as this bill navigates through the legislative channels.

Thanks,
Bo

To: American Horse Council Organizations

From: Alicia Cunningham

Re: Senate Committee Passes HIPAA Legislation

Date: October 30, 2003

The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions unanimously passed the HIPAA Recreational Injury Technical Correction Act (S. 423) on Wednesday, October 29th. This bill is supported by the American Horse Council. S. 423 will now be placed on the Senate Calendar in order to await action by the full U.S. Senate.

The legislation will amend the original S. 423 which was introduced by Senator Collins (R-ME) at the beginning of the 108th Congress. The new legislation states that:

A group health plan, or a health insurance offering group health insurance in connection with a group health plan, may not deny benefits otherwise provided under the plan or coverage for the treatment of an injury solely because such injury resulted from the participation or beneficiary in a legal transportation or legal recreational activity.

Background

S. 423 is a bill to promote health care coverage parity for individuals participating in legal recreational activities such as horseback riding. The purpose of this legislation is to fix a potential problem caused by the regulations adopted under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in 1996 that affect people who enjoy horseback riding (and other forms of recreation) by permitting health insurers to exclude coverage for injuries resulting from riding and other forms of “dangerous” recreation.

While the regulations recognized that employers could not refuse health care coverage to an employee because he/she participated in a recognized recreational activity, they allowed insurance companies to deny benefits for injuries sustained in connection with recreational activities. The regulations essentially protect recreationists, but they do not ensure any benefits. The AHC believes this was not the intent of HIPAA.
Recommended Action

The American Horse Council supports this legislation and urges all organizations to contact their Senators and ask them to cosponsor and support this important bill.

Healthy Forests Held Up by Senators Harkin and Bingaman

URGENT request for support from the GHC Trails Committee - October 24, 2003


According to Congressional Quarterly, a pair of Democratic 'Holds' is blocking Senate action on compromise Healthy Forest bill.

Urgent Action Required Now!!

face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"> Call both your Senators now! Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Jeff Bingaman (D-NM) have put a hold on the the Healthy Forests Restoration Act. What they have done is a kind of filibuster. There will be an attempt to break the filibuster early next week. Most likely Tuesday and Wednesday.

Here is what you must do now:

-----1. Call both your Senators to urge them not to support a filibuster but instead vote to pass the Healthy Forests Restoration Act (HR 1904). Urge your Senators to support the bi-partisan bill that was agreed upon by Senators Wyden (D-OR), Feinstein (D-CA), Lincoln (D-AR), Cochran (R-MS), Craig (R-ID, Crapo (R-ID) and Domenici (R-NM).

You can call every Senator at (202) 224-3121. Or, just for fun, use the GREENS own 800 Free Number, 800-839-5276. Another Free Number is (800) 648-3516.

-----2. Call Senators Tom Harkin and Jeff Bingaman every day until the vote. It looks like the vote will be next Tuesday or Wednesday. So you can make calls Thursday, Friday, Monday, and Tuesday.

You must bury Senators Harkin and Bingamans office with calls, faxes and e-mails.

Senator Tom Harkin - Phone (202) 224-3254 or use the Switchboard number. FAX: (202) 224-9369. E-mail: tom_harkin@harkin.senate.gov

Senator Jeff Bingaman - Phone (202) 224-5521 - FAX: (202) 224-2852 - E-mail: senator_bingaman@bingaman.senate.gov

Some Senators E-mail addresses have changed. It is possible to access your Senators' web pages to find fax numbers, email addresses and snail mail addresses at:

http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm.

Call your Friends. Call your Neighbors. This is your chance to really make a difference.

Congress has worked hard on this important legislation that would help better protect our federal and private forestlands from the effects of catastrophic fires that destroy water, wildlife habitat, and fill our air with smoke. Don't let this bill be killed by an inside effort of a few Senators who don't want it to pass.

Call your Senators today (Thursday) and again Friday, Monday and Tuesday. Tell them that any delay in passing the Healthy Forests Restoration Act (HR 1904) means more fiddling while our forests burn.

Background--Congressional Quarterly Article-October 21

A Pair of Democratic 'Holds' Is Blocking Senate Action On Compromise Forest Bill.

Two Democrats have blocked debate on forest-thinning legislation scheduled for Senate floor action this week, provoking protests from Republicans who worked to reach a bipartisan compromise.

Tom Harkin of Iowa and Jeff Bingaman of New Mexico notified GOP leaders that they will not grant the unanimous consent necessary to take up the measure (HR 1904), which would relax environmental restrictions and
speed judicial reviews of legal challenges to the thinning of 20 million acres of fire-prone federal land.

Aides to Harkin and Bingaman said the senators want more time to review the compromise version of the bill, which is based on President Bush's "Healthy Forests" proposal. Harkin is the ranking Democrat on the
Agriculture Committee; Bingaman is the ranking Democrat on the Energy and Natural Resources Committee.

The compromise, brokered by a bipartisan group of senators, would be offered as a substitute to the bill approved by the Agriculture Committee on July 24. The House passed its version of the legislation May 20.

A Harkin aide said the senator has substantive concerns about the bill and would like to receive further information about the legislation from the administration.

Bill Wicker, spokesman for Bingaman, said the senator has reviewed the text of the compromise but would like to review the details in a public forum.

"We haven't had a hearing on this compromise, and there is a lot of text there," he said. "We don't understand all that text. You can read the text, but you can't ask the text questions."

Larry E. Craig, R-Idaho, angrily objected that the delays invoked by "a select few" unfairly blocked consideration of a bill that was a "totally bipartisan" proposal, put together over a period of months by senators from both parties.

Pete V. Domenici, R-N.M., chairman of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, has endorsed the compromise, as has Minority Leader Tom Daschle, D-S.D.

Eight other Democrats have signaled support for the legislation.

The Senate compromise incorporates many parts of the House bill, which would relax environmental restrictions and speed judicial reviews of legal challenges to the thinning of fire-prone federal land.

Some environmental groups oppose both versions of the bill, saying they would benefit timber companies. But Senate Democrats involved in the negotiations attempted to appease the critics, and the compromise would add language to protect older, larger trees.

Please forward this message as widely as possible.
FOREST SERVICE ROAD CLOSED FOR RECONSTRUCTION

CHATSWORTH, GA ? September 16, 2003 ... The U.S. Forest Service in Chatsworth announces the reconstruction of a 1.3 mile section of Forest Service Road #16. The section of road to be reworked begins 7 miles from Cisco on Old
Georgia Highway 2 at the concrete bridge where it crosses the Conasauga River, to the new Jack


Reconstruction efforts will include replacing culverts, reconstructing and even relocating the road in places. The road will also be resurfaced. Weather permitting, the project should be completed within approximately 3 months.
There will be no access to these areas until the roadwork is completed: Cottonwood Horse Camp, East Cowpen/Hickory Creek/Rice Camp Trailhead, Forest Service Road #51, Horseshoe Bend Trail and Iron Mountain Trail.
For access to the Beech Bottom and Jacks River Trail go north from Cisco on US Hwy 411 for 5.8 miles. Turn right onto Ladd Springs Road (Texaco Station on left). Continue on Ladd Springs Road 3.8 miles to forks in the
road. Take right fork onto graveled road, Forest Service Road #221. Continue on Forest Service Road #221 approximately 5.1 miles to the Jacks River bridge. For more information concerning this and other Forest Service recreation
opportunities, please visit our website at www.fs.fed.us/conf/ or you may call the Armuchee-Cohutta Ranger District office at 706-695-6736. Office hours are Monday thru Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
The BF Grant WMA is having a managed hunt on the day we planned on having the GHC Trails Committee meeting. In the best interest of time, and to avoid using prime riding weather for a meeting, it would be easier for everyone to postpone the September 20, 2003 GHC Trails Committee meeting and replace it with emailed reports from the core committee members.

Would all sub-committee leaders email me a short committee report before Sept 30.

As always, any one who wishes to volunteer to serve as a subcommittee leader or to serve on a subcommittee, or serve as a trails rep from a particular region, is more than welcome and encouraged to do so.

If you have a questions feel free to call me.
Joan Grant

404-888-5676-work
706-654-7081-cell
706-654-3752-home

Tentative Agenda
CHAIR, Joan Grant
Minutes from last meeting (Donna?)
Agenda items sent in by committee members (new and old business)
Reports as follows, or note that there is nothing new to report:

SUBCOMMITTEES:
Nominating Committee
Database of Trail Clubs and Contacts, Debbie Crowe
Education, Diane Ayres
Publicity, Janice Raddatz & Diane Ayres (articles for publication)
Events Calendar, Donna Pieper
Trails Organizations/Georgia Trail Clubs Coalition, Sharon King
Public Land Manager Liaison, Cindy Farmer
Funding for Trails, no project leader at this time
Legislation, no project leader at this time

NEW TRAILS, WORKDAYS, TRAIL CLOSINGS, TRAILS ISSUES TO BE REPORTED BY AT LEAST ONE REPRESENTATIVE FROM EACH GHC REGION:

Region 1, Director Jim Harding, trails reps Denise Rice and Larry Wheat
Region 2, Director and trails rep Janice Raddatz
Region 3, Director Jesse Walker, trails rep Mike Medlock
Region 4, Director and trails rep, Linda Kundell
Region 5, Director Greg Martin trails reps Bobby Mitchell and Pat Harmon
Region 6, Director Jimmy Johnson trails reps Linda Antopolsky and Susan Deutermann
Region 7, Director and trails rep Sherrie Andrews
Region 8, no director or trails rep at this time
Region 9, Director Harry Thompson (no feedback on trails or trails rep)
Region 10, no director or trails rep at this time
GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE EQUINE AUCTION (click for more details and pictures!)

Saturday, November 8, 2003
1:00 p.m.
Equine Critical Care Facility
Decatur, Georgia

The following equine are being sold as impounded animals under the authority of Chapter 13 of Title 4 of O.C.G.A (Humane Care for Equines Act). The sale is for the equine on an “as is” basis without any representation regarding registration, physical condition, or acceptable use of the equine. Pictures of the following horses are available on the Department website at
www.agr.state.ga.us

“Emanon” – 3 ½ year old bay/white TWH mare
“Jody” – 9 year old sorrel Quarter Horse mare
“Bertha” – 2 ½ year old black TWH mare
“Koda” – 10 month old bay/white TWH filly
“Moon Shadow” – 11 month old bay/white TWH stallion
“Star Dust” – yearling black TWH stallion
“Skeeter” – yearling brown/black/white leopard Appaloosa stallion
“Mist” – 3 year old sorrel TWH mare
“Dutchess” – 17 year old chestnut Saddlebred mare
“Magnus” – 8 year old chestnut Thoroughbred gelding
“Twisty’s Gin” – 4 year old sorrel Quarter Horse mare
“Cornelle” – 9 year old sorrel Quarter Horse mare
“Andie” – 4 month old sorrel Quarter Horse filly
“Madison” – 18 year old gray/white Spotted Saddlebred mare
“Domino” – yearling black/white Paint filly
“PC” – 4 year old gray Quarter Horse mare
“Sheba” – 18 month old bay grade filly
“Sierra’s Angel” – 4 year old sorrel mare
“Mahogany” – 5 year old chestnut Quarter Horse mare
“Mr. Flash” – 4 year old bay Arabian stallion
“Ibn Firehawk” – 15 year old bay Arabian gelding

The successful bidder must be prepared to tender the price by cashier’s check or money order and move the equine from the impoundment facility no later than Monday, November 10, 2003. Payment6" valign="top" width="9">
  state impounded the horses from John Johnson, 730 Sandy Creek Road, Fayetteville.We took action under the authority of the Humane Care for Equines Act. The impounded horses will remain in the Department™s care until they are nursed back to health. The owner will be called in for a settlement conference with the Department to address the violations, said Commissioner Irvin. 

The impounded horses are a Quarter Horse mare and her foal, three ponies and a Saddlebred mare and stallion.Three of the horses were in critical condition, said Commissioner Irvin. 

Our horse rescue program is very successful and operates without any tax dollars being spent to rehabilitate and care for the horses, said Irvin. Annually, we receive more than 1,000 complaints about possibly abused horses. Last year we impounded and cared for more than 120 horses.

House Holds Hearing on Right to Ride Legislation

The National Parks, Recreation and Public Lands Subcommittee of the House Resources Committee held a hearing on the "Right to Ride"legislation (H.R. 2966) introduced by Congressman George P. Radanovich (R-CA). Mr. Radanovich is Chairman of the Subcommittee.

The intent of H.R. 2966 is to preserve the use and access of pack and saddle stock animals on public lands, including wilderness areas, national monuments, and other specifically designated areas, administered by the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, or the Forest Service where there is a historical tradition of such use.

At the beginning of the hearing, Chairman Radanovich explained that he introduced the legislation to affirm his commitment to maintain access for pack and saddle stock animals to public lands. He noted that this bill
supports the rights of Americans to keep the trails open by preserving pack and saddle stock use as a natural way for visitors to enjoy federal lands. Families, scouts, church groups, senior citizens and the disabled
all use livestock to explore the backcounty, he said.

Representative Donna M. Christian-Christensen (D-Virgin Islands), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee, voiced her opposition to the legislation stating that it was dangerous to elevate one recreational
interest over another and that she was concerned that there was not a provision in H.R. 2966 which would allow the removal of pack or saddle stock for health or safety reasons. In addition, she said, the Committee
needed to be leary of preferential treatment for one industry.

Mr. Chris Calvert represented the Department of Interior at the hearing and stated that while the Administration supported the overall goals of the legislation, it would like to have a few points clarified in the
legislation. First of all, the legislation states that:

The Secretary may implement a proposed reduction in the use and access of pack and saddle stock animals on such lands only after complying with the full review process required under the National Environmental Policy Act
of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).'.

Mr. Calvert stated that he believed this provision was unnecessary since the Department already follows the process established by NEPA. Chairman Radanovich disagreed stating that too often agencies are using NEPA as a
shield to hide behind in order to close a trail and are not following the provisions of the legislation. Mr. Calvert acknowledged that NEPA is widely construed and that a trail can be closed under NEPA for something
as simple as heightened public controversy.


Horses abound, but
It's neigh to trails
County lacks facilities despite its equine-friendly reputation
By KATHY WAGSTAFF
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

• Cherokee community page


With 83 registered horse farms and dozens of smaller stables, Cherokee County is rated as one of the top 10 equine counties in the state by the Georgia Department of Agriculture. But when it comes to providing riding trails, Cherokee ties many other counties for last.
Although riders use private land and an informal trail winding through flood plain in the 470-acre Biello Park off Arnold Mill Road and Ga. 5 in Woodstock, there are no public horse trails in Cherokee.
The makeshift trail in the park has been underwater most of the summer because of heavy rains.
That leaves horse owners little choice but to drive hitched with a horse trailer to Dawson Forest, Kennesaw Mountain, Dahlonega and other more accessible areas.
The lack of trails near home irks the county's equestrian community.
"When it comes to planning green space and trails, are we ever considered?" said Sabine Yepes, co-owner of TC Farm in Ball Ground. "We're left out. When we bring up these issues, no one ever listens."
Yepes said she has talked with planners of the Riverwalk green space project in Canton but had little success.
Melanie Whitt, Canton's director of financial planning, said the request for horse trails was considered but rejected. The 3.5-mile path that will wind through the city is a 10-foot-wide cement trail suitable for in-line skating, walking and biking. Whitt, who grew up on a horse farm, said she doesn't think horses and pedestrians are a good mix.
Cherokee Recreation and Parks Authority plans to use its recent windfall $2.4 million in fees from developers this year to construct several parks and build miles of trails for biking, jogging and hiking. Horse trails are not on the drawing board.
"We've been throwing around equestrian parks and trails for 10 years now," said parks director Keith Hammond. "It's not that I have anything against horses. It's something we continue to explore."
Hammond cited environmental concerns, the cost of maintaining the trails and the need for other recreational facilities as reasons horse trails are not a priority.
The National Forest Service shares a similar perspective with Hammond. Last month, it proposed shutting down a number of riding trails in the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Parks because of damage caused by horses.
Soil, terrain, rates of erosion, environmental impact and drainage are considerations when building a trail. Maintenance is necessary and sometimes costly. Good horse trails are at least five miles long on property with more than 200 acres.
For now, trail construction at Biello Park is on hold indefinitely. Park officials will focus on completion of a tennis center and constructing softball, football and soccer fields there. They plan to eventually build multiuse trails there.
Horse owner and trainer Wendy Murphy regularly rides through the acres of undeveloped land, streams and informal trails at Biello Park. She leases Breezy Hill Stables in Woodstock, less than five miles away.
"I can get lost in those woods," said Murphy. "They're wonderful. But I'm not sure how long they'll be here. Unless you have a horse trail, where you going to go?"
Horse owners in other counties face similar situations. In south Fulton County, there are 16 horse farms and one horse trail. North Fulton County has 46 registered horse farms and no horse trails. Cobb County has 32 registered horse farms and a 17-mile trail maintained by the National Park Service at Kennesaw Mountain.
Cindy Farmer, land manager liaison for the Georgia Horse Council, said that equestrian communities must be active in getting horse trails built.
Farmer points to Gwinnett County as a progressive and cooperative government when using green space for horse trails. It has two parks in the design phase that provide approximately 6 miles of horse trails each. Another park has an older horse trail system that will be refurbished.
Participation in planning is key, said Farmer.
"It's all about being there when the master plan for green space is being made," said Farmer. "Being there, being heard and being reasonable."
03 LC 19 5986


House Resolution 781
By: Representatives Jackson of the 124th, Post 1, Heard of the 75th, Williams of the 128th, Mitchell of the 61st, Post 3, and Stephens of the 124th, Post 2

A RESOLUTION

Creating the House Study Committee on Pari_mutuel Betting on Horse Racing; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia is facing a major economic crisis which threatens to continue for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, faced with a budget shortfall approaching $1 billion, the General Assembly is assiduously seeking and considering new revenue_enhancing measures; and

WHEREAS, the legalization of horse tracks in this state and pari_mutuel wagering on horse racing may be an additional source of revenue that would help in remedying the current budget problems and in restoring Georgia to a sound financial base; and

WHEREAS, the financial implications for the state of such legislative action deserve to be considered and studied.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that there is created the House Study Committee on Pari-Mutuel Betting on Horse Racing to be composed of five members of the House of Representatives to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives. The Speaker shall designate a member of the committee as chairperson of the committee. The chairperson shall call all meetings of the committee.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the committee shall undertake a study of the above issues and recommend any actions or legislation which the committee deems necessary or appropriate. The committee may conduct such meetings at such places and at such times as it may deem necessary or convenient to enable it to exercise fully and effectively its powers, perform its duties, and accomplish the objectives and purposes of this resolution. The members of the committee shall receive the allowances authorized for legislative members of interim legislative committees but shall receive the same for not more than five days unless additional days are authorized. The funds necessary to carry out the provisions of this resolution shall come from the funds appropriated to the House of Representatives. In the event the committee makes a report of its findings and recommendations, with suggestions for proposed legislation, if any, such report shall be made on or before December 31, 2003. The committee shall stand abolished on December 31, 2003.

For more information click here
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 5, 2003
Georgia Ag Department Impounds 7 Horses in Fayette County

ATLANTA The Georgia Department of Agriculture impounded seven horses in Fayette County yesterday due to the owner's failure to provide adequate food and humane care, Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Tommy Irvin announced today.

The


04 LC 25 3474S
House Bill 941 (COMMITTEE SUBSTITUTE)
By: Representatives Purcell of the 122nd, Ray of the 108th, and Oliver of the 121st, Post 2

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT

To amend Part 9 of Article 8 of Chapter 14 of Title 44 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to liens of veterinarians and boarders of animals, so as to change certain provisions relating to liens for treatment, board, or care of animals and right to retain possession; to define certain terms; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF GEORGIA:

SECTION 1.
Part 9 of Article 8 of Chapter 14 of Title 44 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to liens of veterinarians and boarders of animals, is amended by striking Code Section 44-14-490, relating to liens for treatment, board, or care of animals and right to retain possession, and inserting in lieu thereof the following:
"44-14-490.
(a) Every licensed veterinarian and every operator of a facility for boarding animals or pets shall have a lien on each animal or pet treated, boarded, or cared for by them him or her while in their his or her custody and under contract with the owner of the animal or pet for the payment of charges for the treatment, board, or care of the animal or pet; and the veterinarian or operator of a facility shall have the right to retain the animal or pet until the charges are paid.
(b)(1) Every operator of a facility for boarding animals or pets which facility is licensed by the Department of Agriculture, other than a licensed veterinarian, shall have a lien on each animal or pet in his or her care for the payment of all charges of such operator; and the operator of such a facility shall have the right to retain the animal or pet until the charges are paid in full.
(2) For purposes of this subsection, the term:
(A) 'Charges' means:
(i) Any charges, fees, expenses, and reimbursements which have been contracted for, agreed to, or otherwise mutually acknowledged by written agreement, course of conduct, or understanding, including but not limited to:
(I) Board, care, services, and treatment of the animal or pet, whether provided by the operator or by a third party and incurred by the operator;
(II) Farrier and veterinary fees and expenses incurred by the operator for or on behalf of the boarded animal or pet; and
(III) Fees and expenses for transportation of the animal or pet; and
(ii) Late payment fees, returned check fees, and all costs of collection, including but not limited to reasonable attorney fees and expenses of litigation and costs of sale.
Charges shall not include fees, expenses, or commissions of any kind relating to purchase, sale, or lease of such animal or pet, other than a sale pursuant to Code Section 44-14-491.
(B) 'Facility Facilities for boarding animals or pets' shall include, but not be limited to, veterinary hospitals, boarding kennels, stables, livestock sales barns, and humane societies.
(c) Any person granted a lien by this Code section may waive such lien in writing."
SECTION 2.
All laws and parts of laws in conflict with this Act are repealed.

  House Bill 941
By: Representatives Ray of the 108th, Purcell of the 122nd, and Oliver of the 121st, Post 2

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT

To amend Part 9 of Article 8 of Chapter 14 of Title 44 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to liens of veterinarians and boarders of animals, so as to change certain provisions relating to liens for treatment, board, or care of animals and right to retain possession; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF GEORGIA:

SECTION 1.
Part 9 of Article 8 of Chapter 14 of Title 44 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to liens of veterinarians and boarders of animals, is amended by striking Code Section 44-14-490, relating to liens for treatment, board, or care of animals and right to retain possession, and inserting in lieu thereof the following:
"44-14-490.


(a) Every licensed veterinarian and every operator of a facility for boarding animals or pets shall have a lien on each animal or pet treated, boarded, or cared for by them him or her while in their his or her custody and under contract with the owner of the animal or pet for the payment of charges for the treatment, board, or care of the animal or pet; and the veterinarian or operator of a facility shall have the right to retain the animal or pet until the charges are paid.
(b)(1) Every operator of a facility for boarding animals or pets other than a licensed veterinarian shall have

 

a lien on each animal or pet in his or her care for the payment of all charges of such operator; and the operator of such a facility shall have the right to retain the animal or pet until the charges are paid in full.
(2) For purposes of this subsection:
(A) 'Facility Facilities for boarding animals or pets' shall include, but not be limited to, veterinary hospitals, boarding kennels, stables, livestock sales barns, and humane societies.
(B) 'Charges' shall include but not be limited to:
(i) Board, care, services, and treatment of the animal or pet, whether provided by the operator or by a third party and incurred by the operator;
(ii) Farrier and veterinary fees and expenses incurred by the operator for or on behalf of the boarded animal or pet;
(iii) Fees and expenses for transportation of the animal or pet or any other services, charges, expenses, or reimbursements contracted for, agreed to, or otherwise mutually acknowledged by written agreement, course of conduct, or understanding; and
(iv) Late payment fees, returned check fees, and all costs of collection, including but not limited to reasonable attorney fees and expenses of litigation and costs of sale.


Charges shall not include fees, expenses, or commissions of any kind relating to purchase, sale, or lease of such animal or pet, other than a sale pursuant to Code Section 44-14-491.


SECTION 2.
All laws and parts of laws in conflict with this Act are repealed.

News from the Trails Committee - Workdays

Our first work day of 2004 is coming up this Saturday Feb. 7th and we will be starting (if we have enough folks) on the NEW upper portion of the proposed Loop Trail which is also the re route of the badly needed Jake Connector. However, we do have some unfinished business on the Bull Connector that we also need to take care of. SORBA (Southern Off Road Bike Assoc.) will be joining us and will have the Dingo to assist in putting in the culvert and finish the last switch back on the Bull Connector. Along with that task we are hoping to do the rehab on the section of trail that we will be closing on the Bull Connector….so we need all of you to come and join us to get all these task completed or underway. We will divide into 3 teams (if we have enough volunteers).
We will meet at the Jake Day Parking at 10 a.m. the weather will be nippy so dress in layers. CTHA has purchased more trail clearing equipment and SORBA will have theirs. If you have long handled loppers bring those (again if we have enough folks we will start the new trail). Our goal will be to work for about 4 hours….if you can’t stay that long come and do what you can for as long as you can….every bit helps.

Any questions fill free to email me….
See ya’ on the trail…
Sharon gatrail@bellsouth.net

June 11

Hopefully this WILL BE a wake-up call for equestrians.. The statistics of this poll from Indiana are not as important as what it signifies¦ that other groups that are more organized and possibly with more clout don't want to see us on public lands¦.attend a FS meeting and see the number of Forest-Watch reps in attendance.. The politicians and the œpowers that be listen to numbers.. Although we have the numbers, many are uniformed, unaware, uninterested, and some simply just don™t care.. Equestrians need to become a cohesive force, passing information, educating the uniformed and turning around the ones that don™t care¦.because what happens today will affect the trail riders of the future!!. For many of you receiving this post¦.I am singing to the choir¦.you are on this list because you are a member of CTHA, GHC or involved in other groups concerned with œHorses on Trails. ..However, you must still ask¦just how important is this to me???
.
Many of you are aware of the proposed plans by the National Forest to close all undesignated trails to use here in Georgia and many of the National Forest in the South.. This trend will continue on public lands. .Private lands are diminishing as the cities in Georgia continue to expand.. State Parks have done what they can¦.but their budget is limited and the facilities that are conducive to equestrian access are also limited.. Some counties have looked at providing equestrian access (Gwinnett specifically), but again availability of suitable sites and funding, along with backlash from other users, limits these venues for equestrian use. .
.
Therefore, we also need to look at the land-managers, getting to know them, volunteering to help them, showing up for workdays¦.and if you™re Forest, WMA, Corp property, or State Park doesn™t have them¦then organize them.. Demonstrate to them that we want continued access by maintaining what we have, building new trails to proper specs and doing what it takes to protect our resources and the lands we ride upon.
.
There are projects that have been proposed that the average equestrian knows nothing about. Unfortunately, because of the limited leadership in the equestrian community and the available volunteer base that is currently present to support these projects, they are never getting passed the proposed stage¦..WE ARE LOOSING TRAILS AND WE DON™T EVEN KNOW IT!!!
.
APATHY IS OUR WORST ENEMY.. The assumption that someone else is taking care of all this is WRONG.. The work that IS being done is strictly on a volunteer bases.. The leaders within the equestrian trails community all work, they all have horses, they have families and they have other responsibilities¦..but they see this as an IMPORTANT ISSUE, so they make the time. .
.
There are those who want to help¦but are not sure what they can do. .The Ga. Horse Council Trails Committee is working hard to try and bring Georgia™s

equestrian trail users together.. However, there are jobs that need to be filled.. There are more ways to support equestrians on trails than attending workdays.. WE need chair people for various sub-committees, liaisons within FS districts, contacts with State and National Parks (to work with Land Manager Liaison Cindy Farmer). .Don™t think¦.I have no experience¦I don™t know how to do that, you learn¦quickly. ..Two years ago when I took over as FS Liaison I was in the same boat¦there are folks available to support you to ask questions of¦.it is not a sink or swim situation¦.we don™t want you to fail¦.we just need someone willing and motivated to take on the task.
.
We are also attempting to draw up a list of as many equestrian (especially trail) organizations throughout the state.. We need contacts within these organizations to open the lines of communication between local groups and the committee.. If you would like to help, or know of a group that needs to be on the list, contact Trail Chair Joan Grant at jgrant@fhlbatl.com.
.
There is plenty to do¦..we just need the folks to do it¦..for the future of œHorses on Trails in Georgia. .Please, make this important and find the time to help.. No one person can do it all¦.but we all can do something.
.
Below are some of the responses received concerning the post that have been shared. Just to let you know¦we appreciate the fact that you appreciate what we do¦.remember though, there is only so much that a few can do¦..and there is sooooo much that needs to be done.. If you know anyone that may not receive this post and would be interested¦.please forward.
See ya on the Trails¦
Sharon

 

June 6

Well Gang, looks like the weather wins out again. It has really slowed
process on this project and now has postponed our volunteer appreciation
for all the work that's has been done along with the appreciation of
another "DESIGNATED" trail system in the National Forest. If you really
had your heart set for digging in the dirt this weekend Mike Davis will be
leading a group to work on the Pinhoti Trail. Give him a call....I'm sure
he would enjoy the extra hands. His email is madavis@fs.fed.us (see his
message below). See ya' on the trail Sharon gatrail@bellsouth.net


Subject: National Trails Day-Let's Go!

Good Morning TEAM! After looking at several weather forecasts we have
decided to go with our plans for tomorrow on the Pinhoti. We believe the
rain will come in late this afternoon and the worst of it should come thru
from midnight to 6am. There could be some scattered showers until mid
morning and then it should begin to break up with even some sunshine by
the afternoon. If you want to look at one of the forecasts check out
accuweather.com for Saturday, our zip code is 30705. If you have a rain
coat/gear you should bring it. There are no major stream crossings to
deal with. We realize that this could affect our turn out of the 53
people signed up to come but a lot of work and scheduling has taken place
so we'd like to see it through. Trimming, swingblading and blowdown
removal will be our chore for the day. We hope to work on 3 to 4 sections
of the trail covering several miles. So we hope to see you at 9am at
Villanow for this special event.

Mike

March 6

A Happy mid-week to all equestrian trail supporters.....

The weather this winter has not been very cooperative in regards to riding or working on trails. However, Spring is just around the corner with the outlook of new things to come.

Progress is being made in regards to the installation of the first 12 miles of trails at Lake Russell with hopes of a grand opening celebration on National Trails Day in June. Concerning this progress I would like to invite everyone on this list to join us again this Saturday at the Lake Russell Trail System. We will meet at 10 A.M. to continue where we left off in February. The plans are for clearing through the pine thicket to reach the road....so we will most definitely need some chainsaw folks. Others bring loppers, picks, shovels and rakes....since if the weather permits we will also cut in tread. Lunch will again be provided by CTHA....so we need to know how many plan to attend in order to plan accordingly. Contact Sharon at gatrail@bellsouth.net Joan Grant at jgrant@fhlbatl.com or Bill Elliott whelliott@fs.fed.us. For directions to the meeting site contact Joan or Bill for this information or you can refer to the CTHA website www.ride-ctha.org under Calendar for directions.
 

This coming Thursday there will be a luncheon hosted by the FS and the new Recreation Specialist (Kerwin Dewberry) in the Toccoa District (Jake/Bull) to meet and discuss recreational trial use in the District. Even though I will not be able to attend (real job responsibilities always seem to interfere with what you really want to do), there will be representation from CTHA along with other user groups.

CTHA's annual membership meeting is coming up on April 6th. Ellen will be sending out information soon. I would like to encourage everyone to attend this lunch/meeting. We will be discussing the plans for the future and how everyone can get involved with the continued protection of "Horses on Trails." (if you are not a member and would like information...please
send me an email).

The 2004 Southeastern Equestrian Trails Conference....hosted by CTHA is progressing nicely with its plans. For up to date info always refer to the CTHA website. However, I would also like to encourage everyone to join us in Florida in July for SETC 2003. The responsiblities for this very important conference has shifted from Clemson to the host states. If you are interested (and even if you are not) and want to see the continuation, and development of equestrian trails on public lands in the south I would encourage you to attend this worthwhile conference. Their website is http://www.southeasternequestriantrails.com/.

Now, closer to home. Last Saturday the Georgia Horse Council Trails Committee met for the first time in a few years. The reason behind this is that the folks involved in the development and progression of this VERY important organization are also the leaders of the other involved trail groups in the region. Therefore, the decision was reached that our scope needed to expand and incooperate all groups within the state to become involved. To be presented at the next meeting will be re-organizing the committee into the Georgia Horse Council Trails Coalition with representation from all interested groups within the state. If you are a member of another organization other than CTHA or GHC, and would like to be involved in the development of this process please send me a message and we will contact your group for more information.

Lastly, the Chattahoochee/Oconee National Forest has a new Forest Supervisor, Kathleen Atkinson. CTHA sent her a welcome to the state and the Forest letter to introduce ourselves and what equestrians are doing in cooperation with the National Forest. We now are planning to have an informal meeting with her in the near future to discuss "Horses on Trails". As you can see your representatives are working hard to further the access and availability for future trails within the state. However, we can not do this alone, and we need to all unite to become more of a voice and develop ways to work within the system for the "FUTURE OF HORSES ON TRAILS". This is your invitation to join and support the efforts....along with encouraging your friends to make our voice one that can be heard!!!!!

See ya' on the trails.....
Sharon King gatrail@bellsouth.net, CTHA BOD, FS Liaison/Trails Coordinator, SETC Sponsorship Chair, member of the GHC Trails Coalition, and NTD planning Committee.

March 3 

I am sending out a plea for all equestrians to please join us in the next coming months at the Lake Russell Project near Toccoa to help complete this new trail system. Our deadline is June with hopes of having a Opening Celebration on National Trails Day. This is only the first phase for this project (there are 3 more to go). However, if we do not show the volunteer support of the riding community (equestrians and mountain bikers)....then the other phases will not happen. A portion of the process of obtaining grants for these projects (remember there are no trail elves...that make this happen magically) is support from the users to provide 20% match in monies and volunteer hours...and with a $100,000.00 grant that is $20,000.00 match. Therefore, you can see there is more to putting in a trail system than wishful thinking and assuming someone else is out there doing it for you. If WE don't meet this match in time and funds...the following grants and work will not be looked at. The Forest Service is behind us on this project.....they want it as much as we do....but we have to be there to demonstrate that the riding community is backing this System.

The following is pulled this from the CTHA website www.ride-ctha.org. If you have not visited this site yet give us a visit, and your backing...... remember we are working for you. The weather and trails have not been the best for riding.....so let's give some of our time to making this system happen. Let's get out and have some fun digging in the dirt.
Sharon King gatrail@bellsouth.net CTHA BOD, FS Liaison and Trails Coordinator, and SETC 2004 Sponsorship Chair.
 

CTHA Trail Workdays to be held at 
Lake Russell Wildlife Management Area Trails
CTHA Winter trail workdays that were scheduled to be held at the Jake/Bull Mountain area have been moved so that work may be done on the Lake Russell Trails. Grant money was received for this area, and it is in danger of being lost unless volunteer hours can be donated to match the cash grant. The goal is to have this trail system ready for a grand opening celebration on National Trails Day, June 7.
 

The work days are scheduled for 10:00 am on February 8 and March 8. Directions are below.
To encourage participation, lunch will be provided for CTHA Workday volunteers, but you must contact Joan Grant in advance so that she knows how many lunches to provide! 

You can view work that has already been done at 
http://lrwma.com/id26.htm an
d http://www.lrwma.com/trails2003/leatherwood/leatherwoodtrail2.htm and
http://www.lrwma.com/trails2003/leatherwood/leatherwoodtrail1.htm
A rough map is available at http://www.lrwma.com/trails2003/leatherwood/frady_trails.jpg

Please come out and support these work days! For more information or directions contact William H Elliott whelliott@fs.fed.us or Joan Grant jgrant@fhlbatl or Sharon King, gatrail@bellsouth.net 

Directions to Lake Russell Wildlife Management Area For 2003 Work Days
 

Directions From I-85N 
I-85N, Exit at GA Hwy 63, Martin Bridge Rd. LEFT at the end of the ramp onto Martin Bridge Rd (Hwy 63/Hwy 184) 
Stay on Hwy 184 straight to dead end. RIGHT on Damascus Rd / Hwy 184. 
Follow Damascus Rd / Hwy 184 until it dead ends at Old Hwy 123 / Dicks Hill Road/Pkwy? Turn LEFT (GA State Patrol across the road) Go about 2 miles to Bob Sink Road / Forest Service Road 62 (just before the Milliken plant) and turn LEFT. This is the road that goes to the top of Currahee Mountain. After you turn on Bob Sink Road, Pear Orchard Loop, where we’ll meet, will be the next road on the right. (not the big mudhole, the next one). 

Directions From I-985/365 
Take Hwy I-985/365 north from Gainesville. Stay on 365 toward Toccoa (bear right where Hwy 441 splits off to the left). 
At the next traffic light (GA State Patrol Station on the right) turn right on Dicks Hill Road/Pkwy? Go about 2 miles to Bob Sink Road / Forest Service Road 62 (just before the Milliken plant) and turn LEFT. This is the road that goes to the top of Currahee Mountain. After you turn on Bob Sink Road, Pear Orchard Loop, where we’ll meet, will be the next road on the right. (not the big mudhole, the next one).

SORBA Schedules Work Days at Lake Russell!
Our mountain biking friends with Southern Off Road Bicycle Association (SORBA) have joined in the effort to complete the Lake Russell trails. If your busy riding schedule prevents you from attending one of the CTHA Work Days, perhaps you can make one of SORBA's dates.
WORKDAYS
March 15th 10:00 am
April 12th 10:00 am
Rain Days
March 22nd10:00 am
May 10th 10:00 am
(There is no rain date for April)
The Georgia Horse Council Trails Committee needs your help.

In an effort to establish better lines of communication concerning trail closures, new trails, and other trails issues, the Trails Committee is putting together a database of all the horse clubs in the state. We need your help to gather the following information for the horse clubs in your area.

This is what we need:

Name of Club
Contact Name
Contact Title
Mailing address
County that the club is in
Phone #
Email address
Web site – if the have one
List of public or private trails in the area
Club meeting place and time

Please return information to Joan Grant at jgrant@fhlbatl.com with subject
GHC SURVEY

Or mail to
Joan Grant
241 Bill Watkins Rd
Hoschton, Ga 30548

This information will be greatly appreciated

Thank you
Joan Grant
Ga Horse Council Trail Committee Chairperson

The Georgia Horse Council is proud to announce its new partnership with the Bob Bell Atlanta Summer Classic at the Georgia International Horse Park on June 21, 2003. This event is one of several hunter/jumper show jumping events sponsored by Bob Bell Classic Company. The Gran Prix prize is $25,000. The Georgia Horse Council will provide primary volunteer support preceding and throughout the one-day event. The Georgia Horse Council will donate charitable proceeds from the event to the Murphy-Harpst Children’s Center in Polk County. 

The Murphy-Harpst campus is a behavioral healthcare organization designed to meet the needs of children and youth with emotional and/or behavioral problems. The Harpst Campus, built in the mid 1920's,offers a continuum of quality serv

The event begins at 1:00 pm with family activities including a moonwalk, pony rides, horse drawn carriage and other events. A Silent Auction will be held from 2:00 to 5:00. The Gran Prix begins at 6:00 p.m. Tickets will be available for purchase in April and will include dinner and exclusive covered seating. The event will be televised on FOX Sports. 

Oconee County Mounted Search and Rescue

The Oconee County Mounted Search and Rescue Unit has just been formed. We are looking for experienced trail riders to join us. This mounted unit will be made of all citizen volunteers who want to serve their communities.

There are minimum requirements that the horse and rider both must meet. You do not need to live in Oconee County.

Anyone who is interested in joining may contact either Grace Spence at (706) 207-7950 or Linda Kundell at (706) 769-6395.
 
 The Georgia Horse Council will hold the 2003 Annual Meeting in conjuction with the Fall Commissioner's Trail Ride to be held on September 27th at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers.  Check back here for more details as they develop.

American Horse Council Reports President's Proposal Protects Equestrian Access

President Bush's proposal for new surface transportation programs contains a section which protects equine access to federal paths. Many recreational riders have experienced difficulties in maintaining access to federal paths as federal highway law specifically alluded to access for hikers and bikers but not other forms of recreation. Federal law does not exclude equestrians from these walkways, but some federal managers restricted access because they claimed that equestrians were not
allowed since they were not specifically named in the law.

The American Horse Council has worked very closely with the Federal Highway Administration to clarify this situation.

"We heard from many members across the United States that horses were not being allowed because they were not specifically mentioned in the law," said Jay Hickey, President of the American Horse Council. "We spoke to representatives of the Federal Highway Administration and discovered that this is not what they intended when they wrote the original legislation.
They then agreed to try to resolve this problem." The Bush Administration has just released its proposal for the
reauthorization of TEA-21, a federal law which authorizes the federal surface transportation programs for highways, highway safety, and transit. The new legislation is referred to as TEA-3 or SAFETEA, which stands for Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act of 2003.

Included in this proposal is language that would clarify that a "Shared Use Path" is open to multiple uses, including equestrian use. It is important to note that this is only the President's proposal; the final language must still be developed by Congress in the next few months. "It is vital to the $28 billion equine recreation industry that this language be included in the final bill passed by Congress," Hickey said. "We encourage everyone to contact their Representatives and Senators to
request that the definition of 'Shared Use Path' found in the President's proposal be included in the final legislation. If any riders need help in identifying their Representatives, they are welcome to contact the American Horse Council."


 
ALL trail riding and otherwise concerned equestrians.

The U.S. Forest Service is getting closer to finalizing their revised 10 year land management plan. Allowing horseback riders free access to the forest is a resource protection problem, and renegade trail building has been a growing concern.
• At the present, the proposed plan will restrict horse use to forest service roads and designated trails only, which most of us will find unacceptable.
• However, it is up to us to provide them with alternative solutions, and the more equestrians who submit their input, the greater our chances of getting something acceptable written into the management plan. http://www.southernregion.fs.fed.us/planning/sa_plans/Chattahoochee/welcome.htm

EVERY equestrian trail rider needs to respond by fax, email or mail.

There are two important points to consider in your response:
• The first one is to avoid a copy and paste response - the forest service has a tendency to throw out form letters, petitions, etc.
• The second point is that your response should state that the current proposed standards as are not acceptable AND offer them some constructive and positive suggestions about how to provide us with a pleasant forest experience on horseback.
The comment deadline is July 3, 2003.

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Equestrians need to adopt a conservation policy, educate themselves on public land management policies, then find a way that we can constructively contribute to working within the system if we want to continue to promote equestrian trails on public lands. If the long range objective of having more horse trails in the national forests is impo="2"> Newsrtant to you, then do your part. Every person counts.
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If you are submitting comments by mail:
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests
Content Analysis Team
PO Box 221150
Salt Lake City, UT 84122.

You can fax your comments to: (801) 517-1015

Emailed comments must go to the following address: chattahoochee-oconee@fs.fed.us

What Do You Mean I Can’t Ride In The National Forests!

Simply Put, the trails you ride in the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests may be closed at the end of this year. Got your attention!!! It’s TRUE. The long term Draft Environmental Impact Statement and Proposed Revised Land Management Plan for the National Forests in the Southeast is being revised. Simply Put, it’s a killer to equestrian trail users. As it stands now, the plan (covering the Forest in all of north and central Georgia and parts of Tennessee and North Carolina) calls for elimination of a majority of currently used trails and limiting horse riding to forest service roads (most are gravel) and “designated” trails.

Several parts of the proposed plan must be revised before we lose the use of the Forest. The only way we are going to do that is for all of us to work together and work with the Forest Service to meet their management needs while urging them to include our recreational needs. To do this we should submit specific recommended changes to the plan for their study and action.

Here are some of the problems and possible solutions to make the plan workable.
· Most management actions associated with the plan are on time line of up to 10 years to accomplish them. Trails actions are not on a time line and are effective as soon as the plan is approved (end of this year). We cannot live with that. Ask for a phased in action plan to inventory trails, reroute if necessary, close if necessary, or make new trails if necessary.
· FW-125 states: Unless otherwise posted, horses and pack stock are allowed on classified roads and designated trails only. Funneling all horses on a few designated trails goes against all logic and conservation principles. Dispersal is the answer. The more trails, the less impact and not the other way around.
· Camping with horses and pack stock is allowed within a corridor 300 feet on either side of the designated trail. This is very restrictive to back country horsemen. Camping within 300 feet of a graveled road is not a nice experience.
· What constitutes a designated trail and the method of getting trails designated needs to be defined. Volunteer to assist in getting new or existing trails designated, to assist in a trail inventory, or to do reroutes, or close those that negatively affect the environment.
· Some designated trails are in the Willis Knob, Cohutta, Lake Russell and Jake/Bull mountain areas. We need lots more. Remember, properly designed and dispersed trails are the answer. Ask for 2 or 3 designated systems with 20 to 40 miles of trail in each forest. Ask for loops as well as point to point between trailheads.
· The plan does not advocate additional trails, trail heads or horse camping areas. We need them. Be specific, ask them to add 10 new trail heads for equestrian day use only parking so that we can further disperse any negative impacts.
· Mention that the parking areas need to be large enough to accommodate the big rigs (55feet) turning radius. Parking for 10 to 15 rigs would be great.
· We need 8 new primitive camping trail heads dispersed around the Chattahoochee and Oconee Forests. Access to water is highly desirable. Each trail head ideally would tie into approximately 15 miles of trails.
· If you are willing to pay for an annual parking fee (license fees for trails is not legal) so that funds could go back into facility maintenance, then let them know that too.
· FW-117 states that new trails other than hiking will be located outside the riparian corridor except at designated crossings or where the trail location requires some encroachment to accommodate stream crossing in steep terrain. What constitutes a riparian area is not defined, thus in theory, we could be kept away from rebuilding/rerouting or making new trails in all areas with streams. Ask for exceptions at the discretion of the District Ranger.
· We need a minimum of 2 designated trail systems per district. Loop trails are preferred and should be at least 5 miles long. Single track trails are preferred over forest service roads. Trails can be shared use with bikers and hikers.
· FW-105 is a big problem. It states that: Except for foot travel, recreational use (e.g. horseback riding, mountain biking, OHV use, and camping) is prohibited on all permanent wildlife openings, including linear openings, to protect established vegetation. (This comes from people letting their horses graze in the openings) Since many existing trails go through or around the edges of these openings they will be forced to close many trails.
· In addition, the Forest Service is required to return all roads not in permanent use to vegetative cover. This means reseeding and replanting the road, which then is defined as a linear opening. Provision should be made for trail reroutes if possible, but if not, give the Forest Service Supervisor the authority to make exceptions.


We must have your help! Please! This is an opportunity for you to help insure our continued access to trails in the National Forests. Send your comments by July 3,2003. You do not have to address all these issues. Any help is greatly appreciated. This announcement is brought to you by your Georgia Horse Council Trails Committee. Mail comments to: E-mail chattahoochee-oconee@fs.fed.us by regular mail: Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests, Content Analysis Team, PO Box 221150, Salt Lake City, Utah 84122 ont>

State officials concerned over early horse cases of eastern equine encephalitis
By DANIEL YEE
Associated Press Writer
ATLANTA (AP) ¯ A rash of horses infected with eastern equine encephalitis in south Georgia has caused state health officials to be concerned over the mosquito-borne disease that can be more dangerous to humans than West Nile
virus. Nine horses have tested positive with eastern equine encephalitis. There were only three horse cases of the virus last year, said Rosemarie Kelly, medical epidemiologist for the Georgia Division of Public Health. "We actually do have some concern because it's somewhat early (in the year) and it's a relatively large number of horse positive" cases, Kelly said.
"It's much worse to deal with than West Nile virus."

In addition, recent rainfall that has ended drought conditions in the state may have created more habitats for the mosquito that passes eastern equine encephalitis to horses and humans, she added. About 5 percent of people infected with eastern equine encephalitis become sick and the disease kills between 30 percent to 50 percent of those who
become ill. There were two human cases in 2001 and none last year, Kelly said.


It's particularly dangerous for children, who can suffer from lifelong cognitive defects from the disease if they survive from it, Kelly added. In contrast, only one in 150 infected with West Nile virus develop serious complications such as encephalitis and of those, only 3 percent to 15 percent die from the virus. But eastern equine encephalitis cases appear in
much smaller groups than West Nile virus, she added.


In January, eastern equine encephalitis horse cases were found in Tift and Mitchell counties. Last month, horse cases were found in Clinch, Effingham, Atkinson and Jeff Davis counties. Berrien County has had two cases in April
and one this month, said Laurel Garrison, division epidemiologist. People who live in areas where horse cases have been found should take personal precautions against mosquitoes while outdoors, including wearing long-sleeved clothing and using insect repellent with the chemical DEET, Kelly said.
Nearly all horses that are infected die from the disease, although there is a horse vaccine to prevent infection. State officials urge horse owners to vaccinate their horses against the disease and against West Nile virus.

On the Net:
Georgia Division of Public Health: www.ph.dhr.state.ga.us/
CDC info: www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/arbor/arbdet.htm

Horses pump $248 million into the economy of Georgia
Stell Simonton - Staff
Monday, September 15, 2003

If you envision peaches and peanuts when you think of Georgia agriculture, think again. Add horses to the picture.

The growing popularity of horseback riding in suburban Atlanta is driving an increase in the number of horses and their economic impact on the state. Overall, horses contributed $248 million to the state's economy in 2002, according to the University of Georgia's Center for Agribusiness & Economic Development.

It's not the rolling rural landscape of Middle Georgia but the sprawling suburbs of metro Atlanta that are corralling the majority of the state's equine population.

"The pleasure horse business is driving this [increase in the number of horses]," says John McKissick of UGA's agribusiness center. "A lot is in and around the Atlanta area."

The Farm Gate Value Report shows that of all Georgia counties, Bartow, Cherokee, Gwinnett and Rockdale have the most horses involved in boarding, training and breeding.

In the hills of Bartow County, "you just see horses everywhere," says Bartow extension agent Randy Drinkard.

Horses jumped from eighth place to fifth last year on a list of the state's 62 agricultural commodities, known as the Farm Gate Value Report. Peanuts ranked ninth, and peaches were No. 24.

Commodities are basic goods, including crops and livestock, that are produced for use or exchange. Horses are considered agricultural commodities because they are livestock, they use pastureland and they stimulate the production of hay and other crops.

Eleven years ago, Ada Spruill and her husband switched from dairy farming to boarding horses. They board about 60 horses and have extensive riding trails on their farm near Hoschton in Jackson County.

Their dairy business was constantly subject to fluctuating milk prices, but horse boarding is less uncertain, Spruill says, adding she's gotten numerous calls from chicken farmers interested in turning their poultry houses into horse boarding barns.

She sees an increase in the number of horses in outlying counties, where land prices are lower. "Land [in rapidly developing areas] is too valuable to have horses on it."

Jim Gibby, president of the Georgia Horse Council, agrees. "I see the trend as horse owners [in metro Atlanta] moving out to Hall or Bartow County to have 5- to 10-acre tracts to own their own horses."

The urbanization of the once-rural landscape also makes horse boarding an increasingly attractive option for some farmers.

"As agricultural areas become less agricultural and space doesn't permit row crops and poultry," owners are looking for a way to use their land, says Sue Boatright of UGA's agribusiness center.

Horse boarding businesses, such as Spruill's, are proliferating, says Gary Heusner, a professor in the animal and dairy science department at the University of Georgia.

"A lot of kids and teenagers want to ride. The parents don't want to buy property and put up a barn. So they look at buying or leasing a horse and boarding it nearby," he says.

Kathy Floyd, an extension agent in Bartow, says that children living in Cobb, Polk and other counties frequently board their horses in Bartow. They drive 30, 40 or 50 miles to the barns, she says, where the horses are boarded and where riding lessons and horse training are offered.

About 65 percent of horses are owned by "backyard horse owners" --- people who own just one or two --- Heusner says. It's these individual owners who are having the economic impact.

It is difficult to estimate the number of horses in Georgia, and the Farm Gate Report has some limitations. The one-third increase it reports in the number and value of horses from 2001 to 2002 is based on fairly subjective reports. It relies on estimates from the extension agent in each county, and the method of estimating can vary from agent to agent.

A new computer program installed three years ago made reporting easier for agents, and they agree that numbers may have been underreported in the past. Also troubling is that there are no figures at all from a few counties, including Fulton and Cobb.

The Farm Gate Value Report counts 98,000 horses statewide. However, Heusner, of the University of Georgia, estimates there are 200,000 to 250,000 horses in Georgia. Heusner's figure is based on the number of registered horses in the state as well as the number vaccinated through the state Department of Agriculture.

In spite of difficulties in gathering information, it seems undeniable that horses are having an impact.

The 2002 Farm Gate Value Report listed only four commodities with a higher value than horses. Broilers topped the list, valued at $3.2 billion, followed by timber at $562 million, cotton at $502 million and eggs at $400 million. Behind horses were dairy and beef cows. The previous year, horses had lagged dairy and beef cows.

Rockdale Extension Service agent Jule-Lynne Macie considers horses Rockdale's No. 1 agricultural commodity.

Gibby, of the Horse Council, believes the economic effect of horses is greater than many people think.

The American Horse Council says one horse equals $3,500 a year in economic impact, but Gibby says the council only counts feed, hay, shoeing and the vet bill. Many people with horses are going to move them somewhere to ride or to show, he says, so there's also the expense of the truck, trailer, gasoline, lodging and food for people in transit.

In addition to his work with the Horse Council, Gibby is a sales rep for the pharmaceutical company, Merial, selling horse dewormers to veterinarians. "The cattle industry is pretty much going away in Georgia," he says. He sees large-animal vets turning to the equine practice.

The Spruills don't offer riding lessons and horse training at their barn. They consider themselves more of an agribusiness and focus on raising hay and caring for the horses.

"I have tried to encourage other farmers to use their property for this purpose," Spruill says.

If Jim Gibby is right, there will be a demand.

"We feel like the horse industry as a whole is a billion-dollar industry." he says. It's "probably the best-kept secret in Georgia."

THE BREAKDOWN
GEORGIA'S TOP 10 AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES IN 2002:
1 Broilers.... $3.23 billion
2 Timber...... $562 million
3 Cotton...... $502 million
4 Eggs........ $400 million
5 Horses...... $248 million
6 Dairy........$246 million
7 Beef cows....$243 million
8 Greenhouses..$236 million
9 Peanuts......$232 million
10 Container
.. nursery.....$169 million
Source: Farm Gate Value Report 2002, UGA Center for Agribusiness & Economic Development

WHERE THE HORSES ARE
Rockdale, Bartow, Gwinnett and Cherokee are among the Georgia counties with the most horses. The figures are estimates reported by county extension agents.
CHEROKEE..........3,000
BARTOW............4,200
COBB..............Not available
ROCKDALE..........5,000
GWINNETT..........4,000
HALL................955
FORSYTH.............500
HENRY...............210
CLAYTON..............60
FAYETTE...........1,250
COWETA..............750
CARROLL.............850
DOUGLAS.............570
PAULDING..........1,000
A graphic displaying the outlines of the mentioned counties.
Source: Farm Gate Value Report 2002, UGA Center for Agribusiness & Economic Development / TROY OXFORD / Staff
The Oglethorpe County, Georgia Planning Commission has recently submitted to the Oglethorpe Board of Commissioners a Proposed Zoning Ordinance which will be voted on April 12, 2004, by the Board.
 
The zoning ordinances, as proposed, will have significant detrimental effects on the agriculture foundation of Oglethorpe County and thusly the State of Georgia.
 
The comprehensive land use plan developed in 1996 for Oglethorpe County identifies over half of the soil as ?prime agricultural? or ?significant ? to the state. The goal at that time was to protect and preserve this prime agricultural land. Some how the current authors of the Proposed Zoning Ordinance for Oglethorpe County have veered off of this path, in favor of a less agricultural friendly agenda.
 
In that it is the policy of the State, and it is in the interest of the People of Oglethorpe County and the State of Georgia to preserve and protect the prime agricultural land of our state, I would request that you review the document and evaluate its potential impact on prime agricultural lands of the State.
 
Here is a sample of the flavor of the document:
 
Residents involved in A1 Agricultural are prohibited from operating a home occupation business. Ref. Section 700.5, Home Occupations are not listed as permitted uses as in other districts therefore it is not permitted as per section 600.This diminishes the financial safety net of the Agricultural operation.

 
The County seeks the authority to rezone A1 Agricultural land without the property owner?s permission (ref. Section 700) and in opposition to the spirit of State Executive Order #01917, and the Right to Farm Act (O.C.G.A. 41-1-7).   This indicates that the authors of this proposed ordinance have determined that A-1 agriculture is not a desirable use.

 
 
The intentional inclusion of the exclusion of aquaculture as an A-1 use,(ref section 700) serves only to facilitate the re- zoning of A-1 to another use.  This inclusion also supports the contention that this ordinance as written has an intentional anti- agricultural bias.

 
The proposed ordinance seeks to isolate large agricultural operations by eliminating small ones.

 
 Property owners with less than 20 acres are prohibited from any for-profit agricultural activity? (701.8)(702.2(4)(401-61)(606.2-2)(606.3)(606.4)

 
By prohibiting the participation in activities like the 4H livestock programs, this ordinance strikes at the very foundations of the future of agriculture in our county. As written the authors of this ordinance have prohibited the raising of livestock for sale or slaughter, except as defined in the definitions of 401-6 Animal density for pasturing, 401-7 Animal Feeding/containment operation, and 401-51 Feedlot.

 
Section 700.5 permitted use, specifically references feedlots as a permitted use in an A-1 district. Section 701.6 -2 references back to this as a specifically prohibited use in A-2 agricultural district.   Section 702.2?4 allows for non-profit raising of livestock in accordance with 401-6 animal density for pasturing. However, 401-6 does not allow for the raising of swine at all.  In other words, the net result of this regulation will be the loss of 4H projects as well as small-scale operators producing livestock for the market.  You can't raise livestock in a pen.

For your convenience, I have included several links, including the Proposed Zoning Ordinance.

 Proposed Zoning Ordinance  
 Comprehensive Plan for Oglethorpe County (Adopted 1996)  
Sign up for Eye on Oglethorpe Newsletter

Thanks to Scott Wentworth for this information
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Gene in now on the East Side of Athens is riding out Hwy 78 toward Atlanta.
I beleive he is staying at Serenity Creek Farm in Monroe area tonight.
Does any one have any ideas where to have Gene Stay in the Conyers of Covington area?
He will be going into Atlanta and back out on Hwy 19 toward Tallahassee FL.
Do any of you know of any place on the South side of Atlanta that might be willing to put Gene up for a couple of days?

For information on Long Rider's Guild website http://www.thelon