A varied group of equine enthusiasts gathered at Fasig-Tipton in May for the spring session of the Kentucky Equine Networking Association (KENA). Presented by the Equine Law Group of Dinsmore & Shohl LLP, the evening was intended to educate equine professionals, horse owners, and recreational riders on land loss in Kentucky horse country.

Panelists included Holley Groshek, executive director of the Equine Land Conservation Resource (ELCR); Susan Speckert, executive director of the Fayette Alliance; Ashley Greathouse of Bluegrass Land Conservancy; and Roy Cornett, currently serving as the treasurer for the Back Country Horsemen of America (BCHA).

Groshek, who represents a nationwide organization, said ELCR was created to "sound the alarm" about land loss to equestrians. As most horseback riders are now aware that land loss is an issue, the focus of the organization has shifted to a more-local level and partnership with local entities also seeking to preserve land.

"We’re losing 6,000 acres of land a day to development," Groshek said. Much of the land that is being developed is being developed poorly, she noted