Equine Education Center

The impact of horses in Utah is astounding.  There are more than 250,000 horses in the state, making it a 700-million-dollar industry.  In response to the demand for equine education,  the Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Science Department in the College of Agriculture has been home to a very successful horsemanship program.  Many generations of students at USU have benefited from the riding and husbandry skills they have acquired through the courses taught at our North Logan facility.

Though only in its first year, our specialized program, the Equine Science and Management program, is rapidly expanding.  To accommodate the growing number of students, we are about to engage in the design and construction of a new Equine Education Center at USU.  So, after 30 years we are moving our equine facility from its present location.  Located on a site south of Logan on Highway 89, the new facility will provide a much needed change in environment and space for the training of future generations.  

The new Equine Education Center will cover 26 acres and have a total interior of 75,000 square feet.  This will include an outdoor arena measuring 150 by 300 feet.  A 2400-square-foot barn and classroom complex will accommodate up to 100 students at one time.  The physical facilities will be surrounded by a bridle path that will allow users to enjoy one of the most beautiful locations in Utah.  This new facility will allow USU to host 10 to 15 4-H horse events each year.  Design plans have been submitted for final review and a bid is expected mid-July, with a goal of breaking ground in the fall. 

So far, $2.5 million dollars have been raised for the new facility, with approximately $3 million more still needed.  With the goal of raising the additional $3 million, the College of Agriculture is forming an Equine Education Center Advancement Board.  We are inviting horse industry professionals and enthusiasts to join the board, including Dr. Gary Cranney, DVM, of Cranney Veterinary Services in San Marcos, CA; Dr. Roger Reese, DVM, of South Valley Large Animal Clinic in Draper, UT; Brent Hoggan, J.D., of Olson and Hoggan P.C. in Logan, UT; Shane Haviland, of Haviland Training Stables in Paradise, UT; and Penny Sullivan, of US Weekly. These individuals will will help us identify possible sources of funding.

Another effort towards our goal is an upcoming Gala on October 18th at Thanksgiving Point.  Guests invited to this western formal event will be provided an elegant dinner, country music entertainment, and a special viewing of the  Imax movie, The Ride Around the World, which tells of how the horse came to America.  

The new USU Equine Education Center  and related programs will focus on education in equine science for both students in credit courses, as well as the general public, including youth. The equine program will provide research-based information on horse physiology, nutrition, reproduction, and behavior.  It will allow people with all levels of experience to learn about horses and put their knowledge into practice.   The center will be nationally visible because of its design and beautiful location.  Events held in the center will draw more and more people to USU and Northern Utah as our recognition grows.  

Your contribution to the planned facility will create greater access to people who have a passion and love for horses.  Please consider being a part of this phenomenal Equine Education program.  To donate, contact the USU College of Agriculture Director of Development, Mary Lynne Clark, at marylynne.clark@usu.edu or by phone at 435-797-2208.  You may also contact Mary Lynne’s assistant, Shayna Andersen at shayna.andersen@usu.edu or by phone at 435-797-1573 with any questions.