Rural Living

Urban neighbors may know very little about managing horses.

Most state regulations regarding livestock and agriculture do not cover owners of small numbers of recreational horses. Some communities, especially those becoming more suburban, have adopted ordinances to fill this apparent regulatory void. Such ordinances may limit the number of horses allowed per grazable acre, require horse owners to draw up and abide by a manure management plan, or simply request the owner to ensure that the operation does not have a potential pollution problem.

If you live in an urban or rapidly growing suburban area, you will likely receive more scrutiny from your neighbors and municipality than recreational horse owners living in rural areas. By taking the initiative to be a good neighbor, you can demonstrate responsible management and share the joy of horses with your community.

Some suggestions:

• Acquire and display a working knowledge of the potential environmental and health impacts of your operation.
• Keep manure off roadways when transporting to distant fields.
• Consider wind direction when spreading manure. Incorporate manure as soon as possible to minimize odor pollution.
• If stockpiling manure, pay special attention to odors and flies.
• Keep current on proposed local ordinances and state regulations.
• Host an open house to inform your neighbors and demonstrate how to properly manage your land, pasture, and manure.
• Encourage and help other horse enthusiasts to learn and practice proper manure and pasture management.

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