Impact of the Equine Industry

The Georgia Equine Commodity Commission contracted with the University of Georgia Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development to conduct a comprehensive study of the industry's impact on the state's economy. The Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development conducted a statewide survey of horse owners to collect the data necessary to estimate the value of horses and horse-related expenses and activities. More than 1,000 Georgia horse owners completed the on-line survey instrument. The survey will provide an estimate of the number of Georgia households that own horses and will collect specific data related to horse owners' equine related expenses and activities. It will also estimate the impact of equine related events that draw horse owners from surrounding states on Georgia's economy. The final study is scheduled to be released in early 2012. Of particular interest to a number of key Georgia law makers are results related to the likely impact of horse racing on the state's economy.