Saratoga Horse Symposium – Interview With CCE Equine

Are you a horse lover? Do you want to own horses? Do you own horses? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may want to take part in the Saratoga Horse Symposium.

We recently chatted with Jennifer Stevens, Extension Community Educator- Ag Economic Development/CCE Equine, about the Horse Symposium, April 12 and 13, at the Saratoga County 4-H Training & Education Center.

Q: What is the Horse Symposium?

A:  The Saratoga Horse Symposium, hosted by CCE Equine--a division of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County, is a two day celebration of the horse for new, aspiring and experienced horse owners and enthusiasts.   The horse symposium features educational presentations, live horse demonstrations and riding clinics.  Our classes are taught by leading veterinarians, trainers and researchers from across the state.  There isn’t another event where  attendees will have the chance to see all these experts in one venue.

Q: What is the one presentation/exhibit that you find the most interesting?

A:  All the presentations are beneficial to horse owners and are chosen based on what we hear and see in the equine industry.

On Saturday, personally,  I will take time out to listen to “Snorts, Stomps and Squeals”  a presentation that looks at comparisons and contrasts between domestic and wild horses and how looking those differences can help you improve your horses health by making changes in housing and handling environments.

Also, Saddle fitting is so important and really tough because each horse, like each person is built differently. If your horse is uncomfortable or hurting because of your saddle, your ride will never  be good.

On Sunday I am really interested in Beginning Ranch Horse showing.  Ranch Horse activities seem like they would be fun for any age and any type of horse and rider.

Q: I don’t own a horse, would it benefit me to attend the show?

A: Absolutely!  This event is unique in that demonstrations and clinics are designed to be interactive with the audience.  It is educational  for anyone who loves horses. We also have a great silent auction.

Q: Why is Cornell Cooperative Extension involved in this program?

A:  Because of our equine educational outreach components…CCE Equine is adult equine education and our 4-H Horse Program is youth based education.   Saratoga County has the most horses of any county in New York State, (11,000).  Our goal is to fill the educational needs for the horse people in our region.

Q: What are some other Cornell Cooperative Extension programs that a horse enthusiast might be interested in?

A:  We will be holding a Horse Farm Tour in July, the Saratoga County Fair has equine events, and we are continually hosting educational workshops.

Join us at Vapor in Saratoga Casino and Raceway, Thursday, August 21, for a special 'Party For A Cause' Country Night to benefit the Saratoga County 4-H and the Cornell Cooperative Extension.