With over 9 million horses in the United States, horses and related domestic equines have
a large presence over the landscape. Florida ranks third in the number of horses in the state,
behind Texas and California. There are various outreach programs that promote best
management practices (BMPs) towards small farms, including equine farms, though many horse
owners fail to get this information. The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding
of the current level of knowledge about nutrient (manure) management and awareness of
extension services available within the equestrian community. A survey was presented to 230
people who owned and/or managed an equine facility of any size. Results show that less than
half of respondents use conservation techniques on their farms, with the exception of pasture
rotation for Florida respondents, and dry lots for non-Florida respondents. Additionally, 93% of
Florida respondents and 73% of non-Florida respondents have never spoken with someone from
a conservation agency. Results of this survey will help guide efforts to educate equestrians about
nutrient management and conservation techniques.