Ross Peddicord, a lifelong horseman, is taking the reins as the new executive director of the Maryland Horse Industry Board. The board promotes equestrian industry and the use of horses for recreation through activities such as raising awareness and visibility, educational and research projects to benefit the equine industry, and developmental efforts to stimulate the growth of the local horse economy.

"We are pleased to have Mr. Peddicord join the department to lead the Maryland Horse Industry Board," said Maryland Department of Agriculture secretary Buddy Hance. "His personal and professional experience and broad-based knowledge of the horse industry and Maryland will be a tremendous asset to the department."

Among his first duties will be to release the new 2010 Maryland Equine Census Data, which will be available within the next month.

"I'm excited that the Maryland Horse Industry Board has given me this opportunity and look forward to working with them," said Peddicord. "I've spent most of my life involved in the horse business and want to do everything I can to help promote, market, and grow this vital industry