Therapeutic programs, equine rescue organizations, youth clubs, educational and research programs are among the 18 organizations receiving $17,693 in grants from the Maryland Horse Industry Board. The grants help to strengthen the industry by building awareness of and involvement in the horse industry through research, education and promotional activities.

"The equine industry is an integral part of Maryland's cultural and economic heritage," said Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance. "The scope and value of projects that the board evaluated illustrates the demand for these grants, and the 'feed fund' continues to make it possible to support more of those requests."

Funding for these grants was unavailable until Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley and the legislature approved the current budget appropriation. The funds were made possible through legislation entered in the 2009 session by Delegate Virginia Clagett. The Maryland Feed Fund, established during the 2002 legislative session, provides an ongoing source of money to promote the horse industry. The refundable $6 per ton assessment on equine feed costs about $3 per horse per year to the horse owner and supports this grant program as well as other promotional, research and outreach activities undertaken by the Maryland Horse Industry Board.

A summary of the most recent grants awarded is available at the Maryland Department of Agriculture website