June 18, 2009 — Back Country Horsemen of America (BCHA) has announced the expansion of its newly formed Advocacy Partner Program with the addition of four new partners. The program was initiated to bolster BCHA’s voice in Washington, D.C., as well as to spread awareness among horsemen of pending legislation that has the potential to greatly impact their access to public lands. Recently joining BCHA as Advocacy Partners are the Chattahoochee Trail Horse Association, the Daniel Boone Distance Riders, the North Carolina Horse Council and the Parker Trail Riders.
The Chattahoochee Trail Horse Association (CTHA) was founded in 1991 by several dedicated and enthusiastic horseback trail riders who shared a common vision–that of creating a network of interconnecting horse trails across the Chattahoochee National Forest to form an equine Appalachian Trail. In 1993, CTHA was incorporated as a 501(c)(4) non-profit organization and is now the vehicle through which the founders’ vision is becoming a reality. The Bull Mountain Horse Trail and adjoining Jake Mountain Horse Camp near Dahlonega, Ga., are the first results of CTHA’s efforts. With nearly 50 miles of trails and two horse trailer parking lots, the area offers some of the best trail riding experiences in the state. Members continue to work with the Forest Service and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) personnel to expand the trail network and horse facilities. Members have many different equine interests and types of horses but all share a common love of horses and trail riding along with a serious desire to have places to ride now and in the future. More information can be found at www.ride-ctha.org.
The Daniel Boone Distance Riders is also a non-profit organization formed to promote distance riding in and around the state of Kentucky. In addition to holding endurance and competitive trail rides, members work to promote new horse trails and to preserve existing ones by working with land managers and other user groups. Members are also dedicated volunteers, working diligently on trail maintenance as well as fundraising for specific projects. To join them, visit www.dbdr.info.
The North Carolina Horse Council was founded in 1972 by a group of concerned horse owners in Raleigh who felt that equestrians needed a state-wide voice to protect their interests. Today, the non-profit council exists to represent and further the common interests of the entire equine community in all 100 counties of North Carolina. Membership is composed of individuals and groups representing all breeds and types of horse activities. The Council strives to maintain effective government relations by interacting with state leaders and government officials. It also works closely with the state DNR, county extension agents and institutions of higher learning including North Carolina State University. The Council is online at www.nchorsecouncil.com.
Parker Trail Riders is the fourth group to join BCHA’s Advocacy Partner Program. Located in Colorado, the group’s mission is to provide Parker area horsemen with opportunities to participate in equestrian events, training clinics, trail rides and shows. Activities include monthly English/Western pleasure shows, fun shows, gymkhanas, scenic trail rides, some overnight rides and many other social functions. The Arena Committee, Show Committee, Social Committee and Trail Committee all help to plan and organize events for Parker Trail Riders. New members and visitors are always welcome. To join this friendly, family-oriented club, visit them at www.parkertrailers.org.
For more information about BCHA, visit www.backcountryhorse.com.
