Maryland Horse Industry Board Celebrates Major Milestones

Anniversary Gala Scheduled for January 20

ANNAPOLIS, MD – The Maryland Horse Industry Board—a program within the Maryland Department of Agriculutre—will celebrate its 20^thanniversary, as well as the 50^th year of the state’s licensing program for recreational stables, with a gala on January 20 (6:30 – 9 p.m.) at the Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Road, Timonium.

The stable licensing program began in 1968 under the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, and was moved in 1998 when the Maryland Horse Industry Board was established. In addition to inspecting and regulating nearly 800 commercial stables, the Board also promotes and markets all aspects of the state’s thriving equine industry.

“The licensing program is the first of its kind in the U.S. and is designed to protect horses and consumers,” said Jim Steele, chairman of the Maryland Horse Industry Board. “We conduct inspections of the stables and work with the operators to improve conditions both for the horses and the customers.”

The event will recognize many of the staff and stables who have been involved in the two programs since their inception. The reception will also feature entertainment from the Mayo Family Band and emcee Dan Rodricks—a Baltimore Sun columnist and long-time horse advocate.

Tickets are $25 per person and are available on the Board’s website. The event is open to the public and follows two-days of screenings from the Maryland tour stop of the EQUUS Film Festival, which features 18 equestrian-themed films.

For more information, contact Ross Peddicord (ross.pessicord@maryland.gov) or Anne Litz (anne.litz@maryland.gov).

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