More than $38,000 in research grants, awarded by the North American Equine Ranching Information Council (NAERIC), are helping the equine industry progress into the 21st century.

“NAERIC is continually promoting the utilization of the most advanced animal husbandry practices available. By supporting scientifically-based research within the equine industry, we’re helping to make these practices available to not only our members, but to the equine industry as a whole,” said Norm Luba, executive director of NAERIC.

Each quarter, the NAERIC board of directors reviews grant proposals from leading equine universities and research centers, and awards monies throughout North America. Funding for the projects is made available through a checkoff program. Pregnant mares’ urine (PMU) ranchers contribute a portion of their income, each year, to further these projects. Universities and research centers receiving funding in 1997 included: the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan; University of Kentucky; University of Minnesota; Oklahoma State University; and Alberta Agriculture, Food & Rural Development.

“Research is a top priority for our members,” said Danny Willows, vice-president of NAERIC. “We are committed to the promotion of ongoing research and education, and we will continue to support industry-wide projects long into the future