AHC Initiates National Economic Impact Study

The American Horse Council (AHC) is kicking off what could be one of the biggest studies in its more than 50-year history with the 2023 National Economic Impact Study.

The launch of the survey, which is open and runs through September 29, comes on the heels of three years of great change throughout the country for homes, businesses and industries. Rising costs of living, shrinking of assistance and changes in demographics have affected much of the world, including the equine industry.

An economic impact study examines the effect an event or industry has on the economy and usually measures changes in business revenue, business profits, personal wages and jobs. The large, economically diverse horse industry contributes significantly to the American economy.

The purpose of the census is to demonstrate the value of the equine industry in the national economy and state economies by analyzing the direct, indirect and induced economic impacts of horse ownership, recreation and equine-related services.

“The economic impact study is the most effective tool in our advocacy quiver,” said Julie Broadway, president of the AHC. “When the industry needs to take aim at an issue, this data is invaluable in helping us paint the picture of the contributions the industry makes and the breadth and depth of its composition.”

The AHC has conducted numerous national economic impact studies for the U.S. horse industry, including in such pivotal years as 1987, 1997, 2007 and, most recently, 2017.

“The challenges of the last few years with the pandemic and its economic impacts on all aspects of our industry make the 2023 study all that more important and necessary,” said Dr. Rick Mitchell, chairman of the AHC board of trustees.

Data collected will inform public and private investments in equine-related businesses, equine health care, education, land use decisions, tax policy, tourism, employment incentives and other areas.

New this year are sponsored incentives for individuals and groups who participate in the survey, including a John Deere Z545R ZTrak Mower (valued at $7,500), one year of Nutrena feed for one horse (a $2,000 value), one year of Purina feed for one horse (a $500 value/horse), gift certificates from Trafalgar Square Books (total value $180) and enrollment in the Texas A&M AgriLife Equine Reproductive Management Online Course (valued at $300 per enrollment).

The National HBPA encourages all horsemen to participate in this survey.

For more information on the 2023 National Economic Impact Study, visit horsecouncil.org/economic-impact-study