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Media Release

October 15, 2004

Riding on a better trail of conservation management

Australia has had a long and lasting love affair with horses, in both work and recreation. From Banjo Patterson’s wild bush brumbies and working stock horses, to Pharlap with a heart so big it’s been immortalised — there is something in the ethos of Australian life that is innately connected with this majestic animal. Today, Australians of all ages enjoy the great outdoors, from rolling hills to the red dust outback, on the back of a horse. Trail riding is a pursuit enjoyed by many, but it is increasingly under threat.

In Australia to discuss the use and management of recreational horse trails, international expert Professor Gene Wood, says that in a world of expanding urban sprawl, transport and private property ownership, the opportunities for trail riding are diminishing — but all is not lost.

“The use and management of recreational horse trails in natural settings, such as parks and forests, needs to be balanced with social and environmental needs,” says Professor Gene Wood.

“We are not so long out of the wilderness and a time when the horse was an essential part of life — being able to explore surrounds and find harmony between rider, horse and land re-enacts an important cultural activity and has many social benefits.

“Preserving the ecosystem as well as maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the landscape is central to enjoying outdoor recreation and is something all genuine trail riders strive for.”

There are a wide range of opinions about the use of horses in national parks and forestry areas. Some say horses hooves carry diseases, which run into creeks and rivers to the detriment of native flora and fauna. Meanwhile riders argue that horses have lived in harmony with their natural surrounds since the dawn of time, and Wood says there is no strong evidence to support the theory they are disease carriers. In fact, he says research appears to show the opposite.

“It is about finding a balance of sound management principles, appropriate regulation of types of use and frequency of use, as well as ethical behaviour from horse riders themselves,” says Prof Wood.

“All sides must work together to provide a solution that ensures the protection of natural settings, as well as guarantees that recreational activity on horseback can be sustained.”

With a number of innovative trail developments currently happening in the Adelaide Hills, it is timely for all South Australians that Professor Wood speak about his research and experience, and what can be done to keep the balance in check.

The public lecture ‘Conservation Concerns for Recreational Horse Trail Activities’ will be held from 6.00 – 7.30 pm this Friday October 15, 2004 in Centenary Building (C3-16) City East campus (corner of North Terrace and Frome Road).
 

About Professor Gene Wood

Dr. Gene Wood is currently Professor of Forest Wildlife Ecology and Extension Trails specialist in the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources at Clemson University, South Carolina.

Gene’s work with trails and trail conservation began as an outgrowth of his love of horse trail riding and his concern for the future of trails. He has also published approximately 100 technical and semi-technical papers.

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