SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 25
(By Senators Anderson, Love, Hunter, Facemyer, Helmick, Minear, Mitchell, Ross and Unger)

[Originating in the Committee on Agriculture;

Reported February 21, 2002.]



Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the economic development potential of equestrian- and horse- related activities, horse ownership, events, competitions and related tourism in the state.

Whereas, Participation in equestrian- and horse-related activities, equestrian- and horse-related businesses, shows, events and competitions in West Virginia has increased tremendously since the last equine survey was done for the state in 1986; and

Whereas, Investment in equestrian- and horse-related activities, including breeding farms, training stables, boarding stables, riding stables, vacation resorts offering activities typical of western ranches, commercial and private trails and trail riding, and bed and breakfast inns for riders which offer stabling for their horses, has increased each year since 1986 and any expansion of the horse industry significantly impacts local economies; and

Whereas, Horse ownership and activities not only create opportunities for wholesome family-oriented functions, generating tremendous interest among young people in such organizations as 4-H and FFA, Pony Club, high school team penning, roping and rodeos, but also increase the opportunity for related economic development through sponsorship and sanctioning of horse shows, trail rides and competitions, use of existing state entities such as state parks and the Hatfield-McCoy trail system, and increase the customer base for farm supply stores, veterinary offices, motels, restaurants and other tourist outlets ; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study the economic development potential of equestrian- and horse-related activities; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance also study the potential for interstate cooperation for horse businesses, industries and competitions; the impact of the equine industry on tourism; and the need for a horse specialist in the department of agriculture or at West Virginia University ; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance make recommendations on any needed legislation and legislative directives to encourage and support the economic development of the equine industry in West Virginia; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2003, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.