ANNUAL REPORT 2021
HCBC 2021 ANNUAL REPORT
CONTENTS Page 2 - President's Message Page 3 - About Us Page 5 - Regions Page 7 - Major Grants Page 8 - Coaching & Membership Page 9 - Recreation Page 10 - Competition Page 11 - Industry & Agriculture Page 13 - 2021 Financials
ASSOCIATION CONTACT INFORMATION Address: 27336 Fraser Hwy., Aldergrove, BC V4W 3N5 Phone: 604-856-4304 Toll Free: 1-800-345-8055 Fax: 604-856-4302 Website: www.hcbc.ca
PAGE 01 | INTRODUCTION
HCBC 2021 ANNUAL REPORT
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE As I get ready to write my letter for the 2021 Horse Council BC Annual Report, I am reminded of some Neil Diamond lyrics, from his song “I Am…I Said”. “Except for the names and a few other changes, the stories the same one” – and yet. In the spring of 2021 we were one year into adjusting our lives to the effects that COVID19 and all its variants had to date, brought to our lives. That was not easy, and affected all of us slightly differently. The balance of the year, and the start of 2022 was to throw many more challenges at all of us, provincially and globally. We were all to learn new phrases such as atmospheric rivers and heat domes, in addition to dealing with a very bad fire season. And then came November. Watching so much of our province being destroyed by flooding, lives and livestock lost, properties, farms and livelihoods destroyed, and the province’s highways, and roadways being destroyed in too many locations, was not something most of us could have foreseen. HCBC was involved from the moment the flooding began. HCBC is a founding member of the Agriculture Council of BC, with close ties to that organization through Kelly Coughlin (staff) and Lynda Atkinson (Board member) and others. A remarkable rescue of a horse, via helicopter, received national news coverage and has resulted in our Animal Disaster Relief fund having a very healthy balance as we face what this year may bring. Our gratitude and thanks to all, both individual and groups, who contributed so generously. As most of you will be aware, 2021 also saw the retirement of HCBC’s long serving Executive Director, Lisa Laycock. Lisa started at HCBC as the bookkeeper and after some years in that role transitioned very successfully to the role of Executive Director. She remained in this role for 14 years, and was responsible for leading HCBC through some difficult challenges and ensuring the strong position we find ourselves in today. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Lisa for all that she has contributed to our community over the years. Following Lisa’s retirement, in mid September, HCBC welcomed our new Executive Director, Craig Cherrett. Craig, and all the staff, have had their hands more than full since then. As always, HCBC’s staff deserve our sincere appreciation for all they do. 2021 saw a limited return to “normal” activities, and keeping us abreast of the PHA guidelines in order for us to safely and successfully resume some activities was a big job.
PAGE 02 |
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
HCBC 2021 ANNUAL REPORT
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE You will note that in the year 2021 our membership numbers stayed high, and the start of 2022 looks promising. Program reviews and program development is underway. Our strong financial position will allow us to continue to move forward, despite inflation, potential fuel shortages, supply chain issues and the whole world watching the situation in Ukraine with bated breath. As was the case last year, the Annual Report will be published on our website. A limited number of printed copies will be made, but membership will not be mailed a paper copy. I would be remiss if I did not thank Sharon Pickthorne, HCBC’s Treasurer, and the Finance Committee (Yvonne Darcel and Liz Saunders for all the work they have done on behalf of the organization in these challenging times). With best wishes for an uneventful 2022!
PAGE 02 |
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
HCBC 2021 ANNUAL REPORT
ABOUT US Horse Council BC is a membership-driven not-for-profit association representing the interests of the equine industry in all sectors throughout British Columbia. Tradition, strong values and hard work provided by our volunteers has made Horse Council BC the largest and most successful multi-discipline, multi-breed equine association in Canada.
MISSION Horse Council BC is a member service organization that collaborates with business, industry and government on behalf of the equine and equestrian community to enhance the equine lifestyle in this Province.
VISION “A British Columbia where quality opportunities to participate in equestrian sport and recreation are available to ALL”
VALUES
STRATEGIES
Fairness
Engage and Strengthen HCBC
Science-based Education
Membership
Respect
Represent Equestrian Interests
Responsibility and Accountability
Education and Sport Development
Inclusivity and Diversity
Operational Excellence
PAGE 03 | ABOUT US
Horse Council BC actively represents the equine industry in agriculture, industry, sport, and recreation through education, grant funding, club support, liability insurance, and participant programs
24,891 MEMBERS IN 2021
9% INCREASE IN MEMBERS FROM 2020
PAGE 04 |
ABOUT US
HCBC REGIONS WHAT ARE REGIONS? In August 2018 Horse Council BC had a vote on the proposed Bylaw changes and those changes were accepted. Part of those new bylaws included the move from HCBC following the eight provincial zones set up by the BC Summer Games to twelve new HCBC Regions. These Regions allow for a better and more even representation of our membership throughout the province. Each new Region is currently represented by one Regional Director.
PAGE 05 | REGIONS
HCBC REGIONS EAST KOOTENAYS - EK 863 Members
VANCOUVER ISLAND NORTH - VIN 2238 Members
WEST KOOTENAYS - WK
VANCOUVER ISLAND SOUTH - VIS
726 Members
3367 Members
OKANAGAN SIMILKAMEEN - OS
THOMPSON SHUSWAP - TS
2174 Members
2314 Members
FRASER VALLEY EAST - FVE
PEACE RIVER - PR
1862 Members
1327 Members
FRASER VALLEY WEST - FVW
PRINCE GEORGE CARIBOO - PGC
3911 Members
2142 Members
VANCOUVER SUNSHINE COAST - VSC
NORTH WEST - NW
2973 Members
691 Members MEMBERS OUTSIDE OF BC 303 Members
PAGE 06 | REGIONS
MAJOR GRANTS/FUNDING Each year Horse Council BC distributes funds
$71,593 TOTAL FUNDING
GRANTED IN 2021
across British Columbia to HCBC Clubs, Affiliates, and Members to help fund a variety of equestrian based projects, trails, facilities, education and clinics.
The BC Equestrian Trails Fund (BCETF) was established
$33,100 BC EQUESTRIAN TRAILS FUND GRANTS IN 2021
to provide support for HCBC clubs and affiliates who have researched and planned a specific project related to the construction and/or maintenance of an equestrian trail, trailhead, or horse camping site in British Columbia for public use.
Core Grants are provincial funds targeted for events or
$25,729 CORE GRANTS GIVEN IN 2021
projects that support equestrian sport growth and development within the province of BC. Core Grants can be applied to all manner of things as long as it supports equestrian sport growth and is for public use (or open to the public as the case may be).
$12,764 REGIONAL FUNDS GIVEN IN 2021
Regional Funding is money that is available to all current HCBC member clubs, affiliates and individuals. These funds are available throughout the year. Traditionally approval is given for small dollar amounts (less than $500) benefiting members in the Region.
Education Grants are open to all current member affiliates,
$4,779 EDUCATION GRANTS GIVEN IN 2021
clubs and branches. An approved grant will cover 50% of expenses up to a max $500. The purpose is to encourage and support learning by equestrians and equine lovers. PAGE 03 | INTRODUCTION PAGE 07 | MAJOR GRANTS
MEMBERSHIP
24,891 TOTAL MEMBERS
12 AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS
7424
SENIORS
180 CLUBS & BRANCHES
JUNIORS
46 BUSINESS ASSOCIATES
17467
COACHING & EDUCATION
11
NEW CERTIFIED COACHES IN 2021
In 2021 in the total number of Equestrian Canada Certified coaches in BC is 241. Of these, 215 are English Certified Coaches and 26 are Western Certified Coaches. The province has 678 coaches current or not current, in all certifications and disciplines.
7
EVALUATIONS IN 2021
The Equestrian Canada Learn to Ride/Drive Programs are self paced and student/coach led. You do not need to register for the program. Setup of the date, time and location of exams is done by the coach/student. In 2021, 222 Rider Level Tests took place, 193 of those were English and 29 were Western.
222
RIDER LEVEL TESTS COMPLETED
In 2021, 77 coaches registered with Equestrian Canada, 26 were Licensed and 77 Registered for Training in BC.
3 G| I&N M TR P A G E 0 8 | CPOAAGCEH0 IN EO MD BU EC RT S IHOI N P
TRAILS & RECREATION BC EQUESTRIAN TRAILS FUND The total amount of funding approved for 2021 was $33,100 and it exhausted the money available in the fund. We received 6 applications in 2021, 5 from Back Country Horsemen of BC chapters, and 1 from Southern Interior Dressage Association. The following projects for 2021 are as follows: ·Robson Valley
Belle Mountain Trails Network
·North Vancouver Island
Memekay Horse Campsite Upgrades
·North Vancouver Island
Denman Island Trail Improvements
·Shuswap
Skimikin Trails Signage and Mapping
·West Kootenays
Pend d’Orielle Staging Area & Corrals
·Southern Interior
Canoe Creek Bridge Installation
Horse Council BC is pleased to be able to assist in trail and equestrian campsite building and improvements by providing funding and support. The deadline for applications from qualified clubs is April 15. TRAILS DATABASE The trails database is a section on the HCBC website that stores data on equestrian trails and campsites province wide. HCBC also has a vendor page on Avenza maps that compliments the trails database by offering 24 free maps of equestrian trails. The trails database is an interactive platform that allows riders to add photos and comments of trails that they have recently ridden. HCBC is always working on ways to make the system work better for our members and improve on the ease of use. PAGE 09 | RECREATION
COMPETITION The 2021 competition season still felt the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. With some shows able to go ahead with a safety plan in place, we are looking forward to a full return to competition in 2022.
45
8
85
1
HCBC SANCTIONED SHOWS
EC SANCTIONED SHOWS
CURRENT OFFICIALS
NEW OFFICIAL
PONY TAILS KIDS CLUB Pony Tails Kids Club is FREE and open to all kids! Join Pony Tails today! Alice the Pony will send you lots of horsey fun and help you learn about the awesome world of horses and ponies!
956
MALE
FEMALE
TOTAL MEMBERS
242
714
PAGE 10 | COMPETITION
INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE BC was hit hard this year with record breaking extended periods of hot dry weather. Numerous fires ignited throughout the interior of BC, displacing hundreds of livestock. HCBC’s Animal Disaster Relief fund was utilized to reimburse volunteers involved in hauling livestock out of dangerous areas and provide feed for the evacuated animals. Policies created in 2017 around the disbursement of funds are still in place. Approximately $30,000.00 dollars was distributed to help care for these animals in 2021. One such volunteer was Kelly Kennedy, owner of Sage View Ranch who spearheaded and organized hauling for displaced livestock. Kelly also provided housing and care for numerous animals throughout the fire season. During the evacuation of the Merritt area in mid-August she put it all in perspective “This past weekend has definitely been one for the books. Amazing to see strangers come together and become friends. I have no idea how I would have gotten through without this group of friends. We stuck it out and took every call for help that we could. I am sad for the ones that we couldn’t make it to in time. We drove all night and slept when we could in the truck. Our people behind it all thank you for taking care of everything else. We had people and animals jammed everywhere but we made it work. It’s not just one person it’s a team! Stay safe." Another key volunteer that wanted to help was Ian Paton the MLA for Delta South. Ian was instrumental in organizing a group of volunteers to deliver hay to Kamloops, where many animals had been relocated. Delta farmers stepped up by donating and delivering approximately 900 bales of hay. Picture below shows Ian and Delta farmers who faithfully showed up to load 265 bales donated by Peter and Joe Vaupotic. Many thanks to Mike Wolzen trucking and all the local farmers.
PAGE 11 | INDUSTRY
The number of people coming forward to help has been humbling to witness and has greatly assisted and supported those affected. HCBC wanted to share a few just a few highlights of the generous offerings. The loss of hay and pasture in early November, just as winter approached compounded the challenges horse owners were struggling with as they recovered from the flood impacts. Ontario farm owner Steve Flynn, of Flynn Farms Ltd provided over 80,000 lbs of donated hay. Trucking costs were donated by Hensall Global Logistics and the hay was recently delivered to Merritt all the way from Clinton Ontario. The Nicola Valley Rodeo Association directors and members have shown incredible support and worked tirelessly to serve as a drop off and distribution point. Farm owners in Merritt, Princeton and surrounding areas have been able to pick up hay and feed to help offset the crippling losses they have struggled with. The HCBC Animal Disaster Relief fund was utilized to purchase over $30,000 worth of hay to donate to those in need. Canadian Saddlery & Centurion Supply President Ron Ranney reached out early on when the flooding hit. Incredible generosity from Ron and his suppliers resulted in a long list of horse health care supplies, supplements and blankets soon to be delivered from Ontario to Merritt. Horse Council BC’s Animal Disaster Relief Fund was also utilized to facilitate the daring equine rescue of three horses stranded in Spences Bridge. The severity of the flood damage caused a massive highway collapse on both sides of the residences and farms. This meant the only way out for these horses was via helicopter. Horse Council BC received a call for help early Thursday morning November 18, 2021. With the help from a quick acting Vancouver flight crew, Horse Council BC was able to get rescue equipment to Kamloops including the Anderson Sling. The sling is the only equipment capable of this type of rescue and was previously purchased by HCBC for use by the veterinary community. Volunteers were on scene to harness the horses with the Anderson Sling and ensure the journey was as stress free as possible. The successful rescue saw all horses flown to safety where they were cared for at Sageview Rescue in Kamloops. HCBC wants to thank everyone who came forward to help and provide much needed resources. From Helicopter rescues to long distance delivery it is amazing to see the compassion and support shown! 2021 hit BC hard let’s hope 2022 brings fair weather and good health.
PAGE 12 | INDUSTRY
© Horse Council BC, April 2022 The contents of this report may be shared freely in its original form provided that attribution is given to Horse Council BC (HCBC). For more information about HCBC, the content of this report, or to share your comments about it, please contact communication@hcbc.ca or visit hcbc.ca.
Horse Council BC gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture. ·
