Rutgers Cooperative Extension and the Rutgers Equine Science Center recently published “Agricultural Management Practices for Commercial Equine Operations.” Considered to be the first comprehensive set of U.S. guidelines for horse operations, the document is available for download at www.rce.rutgers.edu and www.esc.rutgers.edu.

Topics covered in the bulletin include farm stocking rates, pasture management, fencing, shelter, manure management, arenas, and equine activities and special events. Included is information concerning rotational grazing, soil testing,
manure storage and disposal, Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations, dust control, and other operational issues.

The guidelines will serve as a solid starting point for good equine management practices and will assist municipalities in rule-making and horse operations in their goal of good farming practices.

If a rule that incorporates the guidelines is adopted, farmers who are in compliance with the guidelines might be eligible to receive the protections of the Right to Farm Act. For more information, see www.TheHorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?id=1412