Connecticut Horse Council Action Alert

CT Horse Council Representation on State Councils

The Connecticut Equine Advisory Council was established on May 22, 2007 by Public Act 07-42 to assist the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection with issues related to the preservation of equine trails in the state.

The CT Equine Advisory Council’s website and link to the Multi Use Trail Surface Study and the CT Horse Council’s Volunteer Horse Patrol Trail User Study can be used to educate and promote multi-use trails and surfaces for planners of trails who may play a role in maintaining or implementing trail systems including town planners, recreation committees and Council of Governments throughout the state. Go to http://www.ct.gov/deep/eac    for more information regarding equestrian representatives and past meeting notes of detailed trail reports.

CONNECTICUT GREENWAYS COUNCIL

Members of the Connecticut Greenways Council are appointed by the Governor and the leaders of the General Assembly. Their duties include advising and assisting in the coordination of state agencies, municipalities, regional planning organizations and private citizens in voluntarily planning and implementing a system of greenways; providing assistance to state agencies, municipalities, regional planning organizations and private citizens in the technical aspects of planning, designing and implementing greenways, including advice on securing state, federal and nongovernmental grants; advising DEEP on selection of CT Recreational Trails Program grants; and establishing criteria for designation of greenways.  Many Council members have had direct experience with trail and greenway development, and they can provide valuable insight into the development of successful local and regional projects. The CHC Equestrian representative is Stacey Stearns.

Go to the CT Greenways Council   page for details on how to propose designations, get assistance, and view a map of our State Greenways.

Testifying at Public Hearings

The Connecticut Horse Council, Inc. represents the voice of the horse industry in all governmental issues. We monitor and pursue local, state, and federal regulations and legislation. We were directly involved with the passage of state statutes which protect equestrians on roadways, the passage of the equine limited liability law, and the creation of a state Equine Advisory Council which will work with the Department of Environmental Protection to ensure trails remain open to horses. CHC has also actively supported the interests of horse owners during town zoning and ordinance changes. Members attend and testify at public hearings, monitor active legislation, and work with legislators as needed. Our members also sit on various state and town committees, such as the Greenways Council, and the state Trails Advisory Board. CHC is your advocate with elected officials.