Last month I touched on the issue of riding on trails that are not environmentally sustainable. That leads us to some bigger questions and opportunities. IÕll put it out there for consideration and discussion. What do you as endurance riders expect out of ride managers and the trail system where rides are held? And what do you expect and want the Trails Advocacy Committee to do for the AERC in the next five to 10 years?

While AERC continues to grow in membership it is important that our new members understand that the AERC is committed to ride and preserve historic trails. ItÕs part of our by-laws. IÕd like to think that we also care enough about the trails where we train and see that those trails remain open and that we work to make the trails sustainable. That is how I look at our trails. How about you?

Riding on trails that are not environmentally sustainable is a black mark against the AERC and endurance riders in general. We take the high road regarding horse welfare, a no-drug policy, sportsmanship at and during a ride. Adopting the philosophy of riding on sustainable trails only fits with our overal attitude about our sport.

The AERC board has been very supportative in funding trails grant requests. It is your responsibilty to provide man-hours of trail maintenance. The AERC is taking the national leadership position by not only having riders working on trails but in addition is bringing dollars to assist in funding trail projects. I would like for land managers to recognize AERC as a leader, promoter, and sustaining partner in the development, building, maintaining and preserving historic trails and other trails that are directly used to our sport.

The Trails Advocacy Committee needs your input to meet these goals and other priorities you believe necessary to keep our riders out on our trails. IÕd like to see some innovative ways to create more funding for our work.

How do we market our good works? How do we let the rest of the equestrian world know that the AERC is a prominent trail preservation organization? Our heritage and culture is tied directly to our horses and our trails. The United States was developed from the back of a horse and the AERC fully intends to perserve that heritage. Please give us your input. We are here to serve your needs. Remember: all you need is a horse and a trail.

Trail Masters Class #2

August 24, 25, 26 and 27 are the dates for the second AERC Trail Masters class, to be held at the Land Between the Lakes wranglers campground. LBL is located on the western edge of Kentucky and Tennessee. The class instructor will be Mike Riter of Conyers, Georgia. Mike taught our first class in Colorado and the class received some excellent reviews.

There are two days of classes and two days of hands-on work on trails. This is an excellent opportunity for riders in the East, Southeast, Midwest and Central regions to participate.

Upon graduation you will receive a clinometer, a Trail Master jacket, polo shirt, and t-shirt with your name and AERC Trail Master designation. Please submit your name as soon as possible. We are limited to 10 AERC member slots for the class. The LBL management is waiving camping fees for those who attend. Bring your rig and your horse.