Greetings!

On behalf of Governor Wes Moore and Lt. Governor Aruna Miller, I welcome you to Maryland and the 2024 Maryland Horse Forum!

Home to more horses per square mile than any other state, Maryland comprises many disciplines of the horse industry including horseracing and competitions as well over 800 stables that teach lessons, board horses, offer trail rides, and provide therapeutic riding opportunities for thousands of Marylanders.

A 2024 economic impact study by the American Horse Council found Maryland’s horse industry adds more than $2.9 billion to Maryland’s economy and impacts more than 28,000 jobs. Additionally, the study found that there are almost 100,000 horses in Maryland, and 62% of Maryland home-owners reported owning or leasing a farm, barn, horse, or stable.

Held every five years, the Maryland Horse Forum brings together over 300 equestrian leaders and stakeholders to discuss current issues facing the industry and ways to ensure its future prosperity. In the five years since the last forum, Maryland’s horse industry has had tremendous advances globally including:

  • The Pimlico Plus Plan to consolidate Thoroughbred Horse Racing under state ownership at Pimlico Race Course
  • Introduction and 4th renewal of the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill
  • Introduction and 3rd renewal of the 5 Star Washington International Horse Show at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center
  • The opening of the $2 million Maryland Horse Library & Education Center in Reisterstown
  • Proposed hiring of a major marketing firm to promote the Maryland Horse Park System The Maryland Horse Forum serves as a reminder of passion and dedication by our state’s horse enthusiasts. Thank you to all who are participating in the 2024 forum. Because of your commitment to the industry, Maryland will remain a world-class equestrian epicenter for years to come.
    Enjoy the forum and enjoy Maryland!

Cheers – Kevin Atticks, Secretary of Agriculture

Click on the link below to register for the Maryland Horse Forum!

https://mda.maryland.gov/horseboard/Pages/MD-Horse-Forum.aspx