The Maryland Stadium Authority (MSA) announced today (Oct. 10) that the Naval Academy Dairy Farm located in Gambrills, Md. has been selected for the feasibility study for the Maryland Horse Park. The search for the site began in May, when all Maryland counties and municipalities were invited to propose sites for the park. Six site nominations were received, and were short-listed to two sites in August.

“The two short listed sites are both great properties, which meet our criteria and offer unique features for a Maryland Horse Park. This made the final selection difficult.” said Alison L. Asti, executive director of the MSA. The Navy Dairy Farm site was recommended unanimously by the selection committee consisting of Asti, Gary A. McGuigan, project executive for the MSA, Dennis M. Castleman, assistant secretary for the Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED), Sue Kenney, DBED project manager, James B. Steele, chairman of the Horse Industry Board, Charles C. Fenwick, Jr., and Gregory Gingery, and was approved by the Maryland Stadium Authority Board today.

Castleman said, “It is anticipated that the Horse Park will attract large national and international equestrian events, and will be a significant tourist destination.” The park will be modeled after the Kentucky Horse Park, but will be tailored to take into account the unique aspects of the Navy Dairy Farm site and the amenities in the surrounding area.

Rob Burk, executive director of the Maryland Horse Industry Board, said, “The Horse Park will also promote agricultural business and encourage the preservation of open space for agricultural use