The Michigan Equine Survey was done to estimate the number of horses, ponies, donkeys and mules in Michigan, and to determine their locations, ages, breeds and uses. The 2007 study was the largest that’s been completed, and the first since 1996.
It was also designed to learn how people use equines, how the animals are kept, how manure is managed, how equine properties are zoned, how equines are used on public land, the number of people employed by the equine industry, and the industry’s contribution to the state’s economy.
Results show that the number of equines has risen by more than 20 percent over the past 11 years. More equines mean a stronger demand for production agriculture and the infrastructure that supports it. The greatest number of equine animals are found in Oakland, Washtenaw and Livingston counties, and 440,000 acres of land is devoted to equine operations across the state. The total value of assets, including barns, equipment and supplies, is nearly $8 billion.
Michigan State University faculty members will use the results to plan educational programs, research and extension efforts for equine owners and industry professionals. Information will help government officials make decisions and policies about zoning and land use, trail access, tax laws and other issues affecting equine owners. Veterinarians and others who monitor equine health will make use of the information. Results will benefit people who are planning new equine facilities, public and private trails or equine-related businesses.
Results of the study show that in many ways, horses count in Michigan. Researchers at Michigan State University are analyzing the survey data to show what the equine industry contributes to the state’s economy. A report will be available once the data have been further analyzed. Results so far are available from the National Agricultural Statistics Service Michigan Field Office.