During the spring of 2nd grade, my friend Robbie Ryba wrote a love letter and handed it to me in the hay shed after school. It was my first love letter; and being merely eight years old, it seemed foolish to me for anyone to waste their time writing romantic nonsense when you could be outside building a fort or playing with the horses; I firmly explained to Robbie that I had no time for love…I was devoted to my pony.
That was many years ago; being older and wiser, my love for mules, horses, and donkeys developed into writing feature articles, mule training books, cowgirl humor, judging mule events, and becoming involved with professional organizations that work to protect our trails and are concerned with the welfare of our mules and horses. Developing a partnership with my mules and securing a future for them has taken priority in my life. Working with mule owners in establishing heightened communication gives me great pleasure that I am making a difference in the mule world. My personal experience in working with mules is so endearing to me that I’ve kept a mule diary since 1985. Filled with laughter and tears my heartfelt stories are carefully documented to be remembered by. At times, I look back.
I reflect on the organizations that are committed to watching over our trails and protecting the equine industry:
Back Country Horsemen of Missouri (BCHMO) is part of the Back Country Horsemen of America (BCHA). As such, BCHMO coordinates activities throughout Missouri to protect and keep Missouri’s public trails open to equestrians. Purposes of Back Country Horsemen of Missouri:
- To ensure that public lands remain open for equestrian use.
- To further the commonsense use and enjoyment of equines on Missouri’s trails.
- To educate, encourage, and gain active participation in the care and use of equestrian resources.
- To assist the federal, state, and county agencies with the maintenance and management of land resources for equestrian uses.
- To foster and encourage the formation of new state chapters.
Interestingly, Missouri ranks third nationally in horse population. With an estimated horse population of 200,000 horses, the total value of all breeds exceeds $400 million and operating expenses are more than $200 million annually.
The horse industry today is diverse and contributes significantly to the economic health of the state. Horse and mule enthusiasts enjoy a wide range of activities such as trail riding, rodeos, racing, show competitions, jumping, driving, and hunting.
The Missouri Horse Council was founded in January 2019. The council recognizes that the equine industry is large but quite fragmented. They want to bring all stakeholders together to provide one voice for Missouri’s equine industry. The benefits are numerous, including a stronger voice in economic development initiatives, promoting equine education, improving communication of health threats, and unifying a strong voice in political discussions and voting. (www.missourihorsecouncil.com)
Growing up with horses will teach children how to get back on after a rough day, putting something else’s care above their own and being able to get up at all hours and function. Growing up with horses will also allow kids to develop pitchfork skills to last a lifetime, and the work ethic grows from there. This year, like every year, it is up to us to protect our shared trails for our children and grandchildren. Stay informed, get involved, make friends, and work together to protect the public lands for our children’s future.
By the way, Robbie Ryba has found love and has family and friends to share his dreams with. We laugh over our childhood memories and that handwritten love letter remains in my old keepsake scrapbook.