Results of the Michigan Equine Survey are available at the National Agricultural Statistics Service Michigan Field Office. The highlights:
Population and Location of Equines in Michigan
- There were 35,000 equine operations in 2007, most located on places with fewer than 10 equine animals.
- Michigan’s equine population was 155,000 in 2007, up from 133,000 animals in 1996.
- Equine animals are more geographically dispersed than other livestock, located in significant numbers in almost every county.
- The greatest numbers of equines are in Oakland, Washtenaw and Livingston counties, in that order.
- There are 440,000 acres devoted to equine operations across Michigan.
- 345,000 acres are zoned for agricultural use.
- 60,000 acres are zoned residential.
Use of Equines in Michigan
- More than a third (37 percent) of Michigan’s equines are used for recreation/pleasure.
- More women than men participate in equine activities; 45 percent of all are participants are adults between 19 and 49.
Equine Breeds in Michigan
- Four breeds made up more half the total number of animals. The most popular breeds, in order, are
- American Quarter Horse.
- American Paint.
- Arabian.
- Standardbred.
Equine Economics and Employment in Michigan
- The value of equine assets, including barns, equipment and supplies, is nearly $8 billion.
- Most equine-related labor — work done by 79,000 operators, partners and family members — was unpaid.
- Equine operators spent $25 million on 4,300 hired workers in 2006.
- A large number of workers — including veterinarians, farriers, tack store operators, trainers and jockeys — are supported by the equine industry but not employed directly by equine operations.
- Not counting wages and salaries to hired workers, operators and owners paid $805 million in equine-related expenses in 2006. These included costs for feed, fuel, health care, transportation, equipment, tack, boarding, bedding, breeding, show and race entry fees and taxes.