Contact:
Shannon Hays
Communications
Shannon.Hays@snoco.org
425-409-7916
Engaging Equestrians in Snohomish County and Beyond
The Creation of the Executive Horse Council of Snohomish County
EVERETT, Wash., October 23, 2019 –Today, Snohomish County Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism announced the formation of the Executive Horse Council of Snohomish County. The Executive Horse Council of Snohomish County will be a county-wide equestrian work group intended to interface directly with the Parks department and other regional land managers advising on equestrian needs. This includes public education on horse etiquette and safe practices as well as helping to develop specific work plans and collective vision for horse recreation needs.
Last year, Snohomish County Parks, Recreation & Tourism completed a public equestrian survey titled “Horses Count.” We received significant response from both inside and outside the county. “Horses Count” provided important insight into equestrian ownership and activities in the county including a variety of disciplines and recreation interests. The survey also illustrated a need to bring different equestrian voices together to help collaboratively grow opportunities for the next generation of equestrians. The formation of The Executive Horse Council of Snohomish County is a direct result of the “Horses Count” report. The county is now looking for active participants.
“We have a strong equine heritage in Snohomish County,” said Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers. “Creating the Executive Horse Council of Snohomish County will expand opportunities for recreation and tourism.”
“The Equestrian Horse Council will be a valuable planning resource for future equestrian needs in Snohomish County,” said Snohomish County Council Chair, Terry Ryan. “We look forward to receiving their recommendations.”
The Executive Horse Council of Snohomish County will meet monthly on the first Wednesday of every month, beginning November 6, 2019 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. at the Snohomish County Parks, Recreation & Tourism Administrative Offices at Willis Tucker Park (6705 Puget Park Dr., Snohomish, WA). The council welcomes all horse riders and lovers; horse ownership is not necessary for involvement.
Former County Park Advisory Board Member and horse enthusiast Catherine Collins will be the council’s first chair. The Executive Horse Council is not an official county board or commission but will be an active work group.
“I moved to Snohomish County over a decade ago because of my love of horses,” said Collins. “I’m excited to serve in a role that will help ensure future generations have the opportunity to recreate with their horses in a way that enriches us all,” says Collins.
“It is a wise move to create this council,” said Joan Burlingame avid equestrian and Pierce County Outdoor Sports and Recreation Council Chair. ”Both riders and horses benefit when a structure is in place to identify opportunities for sharing resources like trails or arenas, transferring knowledge across generations, and providing a voice to advise jurisdictions on accommodating equine.”
The Parks Department hopes the council will look at short, mid, and long range equestrian goals and education opportunities. Contact Catherine Collins for further council questions and information at seacollins2@gmail.com.