Louisiana Equine Promotion and Research Advisory Board

Supports the growth and development of the equine industry in Louisiana by enhancing research, education, promotion, facilities, tourism, events, and equine-related activities throughout the state.

The Louisiana Equine Promotion and Research Program was created by Act 168 of the 2021 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature. Its purpose is to support the growth and development of the equine industry in Louisiana by enhancing research, education, promotion, facilities, tourism, events, and equine-related activities throughout the state. It is governed by La. R.S. 3:2071-2077.

The Louisiana Equine Promotion and Research Advisory Board was created within the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry by Act 168 of the 2022 Regular Session, with its domicile at 5825 Florida Boulevard, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70806. 

The board may provide information to governmental entities upon request on subjects of concern to the equine industry and collaborate with the state or federal governments on the development and administration of the program. It may cooperate with any local, state, regional, or national organization or agency engaged in activities consistent with the objectives of the program.

Meetings

We hold meetings approximately every month.

* Denotes tentative minutes that are pending approval

Membership

The board consists of 13 members appointed by the Commissioner of Agriculture and Forestry. The board comprises the following members: 

1. One who is engaged in the equine event business

2. One who is engaged in the trail facility business

3. One who is engaged in the equine education programs from an accredited post-secondary education institution in Louisiana

4. One who is engaged in the promotion of the equine industry

5. One who is engaged in equine research from an accredited postsecondary educational institution in Louisiana

6. Two who are engaged in equine performance

7. Two who are engaged in equine racing

8. One who is an owner or operator of a therapeutic riding and rehabilitation center

9. One who is an owner or operator of an equine facility

10. One appointed from a list of three persons nominated by the Louisiana Quarter Horse Breeder Association

11. One appointed from a list of three persons nominated by the Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association

Additionally, the commissioner of Agriculture and Forestry, the Lieutenant Governor, and the president of Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation, Inc., or their designees, shall serve as ex officio members in an advisory capacity only. Members serve at the pleasure of the commissioner.

Funding

The Commissioner of Agriculture and Forestry may accept and expend monies from any source, including gifts, contributions, donations, state appropriations, and federal grants, and may accept and use services from individuals, corporations, and governmental entities.

Funds made available to the commissioner may be expended for the following uses:

1. To attract national contests, shows, and equine events to Louisiana

2. To develop and promote equine tourism through the enhancement of equine trails and camping facilities

3. To support therapeutic riding and rehabilitation programs

4. To develop educational programs and disseminate educational materials about the equine industry

5. To support the enhancement and maintenance of public multi-use equine facilities

6. To promote activities, facilities, events, and the needs of the Louisiana equine industry

7. To contract for scientific research with any accredited postsecondary education institution or similar educational institution that will assist in carrying out the purposes of the program, including equine health, welfare, management, reproduction, nutrition, and general physiology.

Grants

The Board offers one-time grants, based on available funds, to applicants for the purpose of supporting the growth and development of the equine industry by enhancing research, education, promotion, facilities, tourism, events, and equine-related activities throughout the state.

Applicants are encouraged to review the guidelines and gather the documentation necessary for submission. Applicants should apply early, as grants are available on a first-come basis. Applications will be considered by the Board at their meetings:

• Equine Promotion and Research Grant Application

• Equine Promotion and Research Grant Application Guidelines

Related links

• La. Division of Administration (DOA) Boards and Commissions