NEW ALBERTA STABLES ASSOCIATION

Horse activities in Alberta have increased greatly over the past several years. Alberta presently has a higher horse population than any other province in Canada and a reputation in the industry that Albertans can be proud of. Since the dynamics of the industry in Alberta are growing, the question arises -- how do we improve and promote our Alberta horse industry? Among other possibilities and opportunities, a listing and/or identification of all stables may be a critical advantage. Whether a boarding, training, racing, breeding, care facility or dude ranch, any horse or equine species stable would have the opportunity to promote their business to new and existing horse people.

Representatives of the Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF), the Horse Industry Association of Alberta (HIAA) and Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (AAFRD) recently met to discuss possible benefits of a stable directory process for the horse community which would include, but not be limited to, recreational and beginner through to the elite competitive, training, breeding and racing. The boarding and training industry is estimated to be worth thirty million dollars annually to the Alberta economy. As the demand for stable space increases, there will be increased need to identify types and interests of respective stables, levels and types of care provided, and the levels, types and qualifications of instructors and trainers.

The AEF, HIAA and AAFRD representatives include stable owners, recreational and competitive riders, breeders, coaches and ranchers and a working group was formed with a goal to establish an association of commercial stable owners. The working group developed the following mission and vision as well as potential standards for and benefits of membership.

Alberta Stables Association 

Mission: "strengthen Alberta’s stable industry by promoting safety, education, animal welfare and sound business practices as well as providing support and marketing opportunities for the stable industry."

Vision: "a self-governing association of stables with a mission to increase credibility and expand the stable industry in Alberta."

Why Participate?

Because customers care about safety and professionalism. 
Because stable owners have pride in their facilities and care about the safety and quality of their programs. 
Visible evidence to potential customers that owners/operators adhere to industry safety standards. 
Lobbying Power and Advocacy
Stable owners would be able to lobby government and other organizations on important issues to their industry. Some key areas and advantages where action could be directed:

Farm status for training stables 
Cost of insurance (group buying power) 
Potential for feed, fuel and supply discounts 
Advocacy for various legislative acts and regulations such as:
- Animal Keepers Act and Regulations
- Animal Protection Act and Regulations
- Stray Animal Act and Regulations
- Livestock Identification and Brand Inspection Act and Regulations 
- Alberta Veterinary Profession Act 
Establishment of Standards
Proof the facility is committed to safety, education and animal welfare. 

Safety standards 
Facility standards 
Program standards 
Education

Creation of a recommendations guidebook for stable owners. 
Workshops and seminars for good business practices, maximizing profits, etc. 
Public Promotion
A web-based directory. 
Exposure at trade fairs. 
Internal Communication

Advocacy for mediation and/or arbitration. 
Member newsletter and services. 
Straight line communication with educational institutions (Olds, Vermillion etc.) to identify potential employees and have input for recommended curriculum. 
Development of an information exchange process with respect to problem clients, feed supply and any other issues. 

We're still in the early stages so check the new Alberta Stables website at www.albertastables.ca to follow the progress.

For more information, contact
Ed Galloway, Chair, ed@albertastables.ca
Rob Davy, Vice Chair, rob@albertastables.ca