This year the Southeastern Equestrian Trails Conference (SETC) was held in Atlanta, Georgia, July 29 through 31. The conference was hosted by the Chattahoochee Trail Horse Association. The theme of the conference was "Tomorrow's Trails Through Education, Communication and Preservation.

The first day was dedicated to trail design. The class was presented by Mike Riter, a nationally known trail design expert. This year AERC sent four of its members to the class--Jim Barnett, Earle Baxter, Roger Taylor and Bill Wilson. The subject matter is normally covered in a four-day work session with actual hands-on involvement in the development of a new trail.

Through Mr. Riter and other trail design professionals across the U.S., we are making a significant improvement in our ability to work with our land managers. In some instances our training and understanding of how to do it right surpasses the knowledge of our land managers. This is when we become not only the design experts but teacher. And isn't that where AERC needs to be--having experts on call within our ranks to solve trail design issues? I would like to see and will work to see that each AERC region has a number of certified trail designers to solve trail design issues in their region.

On the second day, speakers covered such subjects as invasive plant species, bringing diverse trail users groups together, federal transportation funds for trails, creating equestrian trail organizations, and an update on the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.

Saturday's session included presentations by each state within SETC on projects that were accomplished in this past year. I'm always amazed to see the number and quality of the projects that pop up in the Southeast. Included in the Alabama presentation was the bridge and trail project that was accomplished by the Southeast Endurance Riders Association (SERA).

I gave a 45-minute talk on the politics of keeping our trails.

After the conference, I met with the SETC planning team and asked if they would consider "exporting" their organizational abilities to other parts of the country. The request is under consideration.

Heard over the fence recently: The Daniel Boone National Forest is planning on some long-term improvements that will make it one of the best riding experiences in the East. Thank you, Dr. Greg Jones, for your continued and relentless efforts as the AERC trails advocate in Kentucky.

Remember: All you need is a horse and a trail.