The Equine Land Conservation Resource (ELCR) welcomed four new members to the advisory council, which serves as a support structure for the organizations growth and future development. Each member brings unique and necessary knowledge to the table and can advise ELCR staff and board members on a variety of topics ranging from fundraising to volunteerism, to trail development, and stewardship to equine economic development.

Jeff Hooper of Texas has served as the National Cutting Horse Association’s Executive Director since August 2000. He has dedicated his life to working in various sectors of the equine industry and he understands and promotes the conservation of land for equine related activities.

"Preserving land for equine purposes and preserving the western lifestyle is extremely important to the National Cutting Horse Association," said Hooper. "It is an honor to serve with the ELCR on these worthy efforts that will benefit generations to come."

Kerri Kent, Oregon, is a rancher, rider, outdoor enthusiast, mother, and inventive businesswoman that founded KERRITS, a company that specializes in sustainable equestrian apparel that is made exclusively from organic and recycled materials. In the beginning, Kent examined every aspect of her business from manufacturing and shipping practices to product packaging and advertising strategies to develop an earth-friendly business model and the results proved to be extremely rewarding