The Texas horse industry contributes $3 billion in direct economic impact to the state's economy and generates close to $110 million in annual taxes according to the AHC study. The study also revealed that the industry supports over 96,000 Texas jobs . This study is the most comprehensive research document ever compiled on the American horse industry and highlights 15 breakout states, including Texas, that account for more than 51% of the U.S. horse population. In terms of total effect on the gross domestic product, California leads the way at $6.97 billion a year, followed by Texas at $5.23 billion and Florida at $5.15 billion.

The AHC study was commissioned by the American Horse Council Foundation with major funding support from the American Quarter Horse Association, The Jockey Club, the National Thoroughbred Racing Association and Breeders' Cup Limited, Keenland Association, American Paint Horse Association, American Association of Equine Practitioners, U.S. Trotting Association, Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association and the U.S. Equestrian Federation. It confirms what folks in the Texas horse industry already knew, that this industry is a vital contributor to our state's economy. Rob Werstler with the Texas Quarter Horse Association said, "Never before has the impact of our industry been so dramatically demonstrated."

Key industry statistics and economic indicators in the report included:

* Total economic impact of $5.2 billion by activity:
* $848 million from Racing
* $1.9 billion from Showing
* $1.5 billion from Recreation
* $898 million from other activities
* Estimated number of horses in Texas: 979,000
* Estimated number of horses by activity:
* 104,000 in Racing
* 311,000 in Showing
* 340,400 in Recreation
* 222,600 in other activities

"This study paints a positive picture for our industry...," said Dave Hooper, Executive Director of the Texas Thoroughbred Association .

ADDING TO AN ALREADY “STABLE” LOCAL ECONOMY

According to retired Erath County Extension Agent, Joe Pope, the Horse Industry in Erath County alone brings in over $7.6 MILLION dollars in ag-related income each year. Sales, training, boarding, breeding, shows, winnings, job creation, investments in barns and acreage…it all adds up and lots of money is changing hands as a result. Pope said, “The Stephenville Cattle Company does over $1-Million in horse sales annually.” There are an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 horses in Erath County.