Each year the American Horse Council (AHC) presents the Rolapp Award to a Congress member who has been a great supporter of the horse industry. The Award is presented in honor of the late Rich Rolapp who was president of the AHC from 1974 to 1993.

This year, the AHC presented the Rolapp Award to Senator Mike Enzi of Wyoming for his outstanding service to the horse industry. Enzi received the award June 14 at a Congressional reception on Capitol Hill during the AHC’s annual meeting in Washington, D.C., before leaders of the horse industry and Members of Congress.

“Senator Enzi understands how important our national forests and trails are to the horse industry, and his involvement in the National Forest Service Trail Stewardship Act was critical to ensuring that this important piece of legislation would be passed,” said AHC President Julie Broadway. “Thousands of American enjoy riding in national forest every year and the current backlog of deferred maintenance in the national forest trail system not only threatens their ability to enjoy these national treasures, but also the entire $32 billion recreational riding industry and the 128,000 jobs it directly supports. This bill is an important step to address the maintenance backlog and will help make certain that equestrians and all trail users are able to have access to and enjoy our national forest.”

Enzi added, “America, and especially Wyoming, is home to a wealth of scenic beauty and natural treasures that just can’t be found anywhere else. The National Forest System Trails Stewardship Act will make the most of our resources, maximize the use of volunteers and improve access to our National Forests for generations to come. I appreciate receiving the Rolapp Award in recognition of my work to pass this law in order to help expand access for those willing to explore the natural wonder of our National Forests