American Horse Council Annual Conference Encouraging Greater Collaboration
The American Horse Council (AHC) held its 56th annual conference June 22-25, 2025, in Washington DC. Hundreds of top leaders from breed and discipline associations, veterinary professionals, educators, and key stakeholders gathered for four days of robust content, strategic networking, and actionable recommendations.
Sunday: Setting the Stage for Success
The conference kicked off with three standout presentations. The United Horse Coalition set the tone, spotlighting “responsible ownership” and essential resources available for horse owners in need. Diana Bezdedeanu and Kyle Rothfus unveiled innovative strategies in “Open Outsourcing Aftercare,” followed by Scott Beckstead of the Wild Horse Refuge, who inspired with stories of saving both wild and domestic equines. Dr. Neely Heidorn of Louisiana State University captivated the audience with a compelling overview of how Louisiana had leveraged partnerships to strengthen its state equine industry. Rounding out the day, Tyson Hartshorn of Innately explored “the digital landscape of horse culture—collaborative technology to keep pace.”
Monday: National Issues Forum—Collaboration in Action
Monday’s National Issues Forum kept the momentum strong. Jaime Notter gave a rousing keynote address on culture, collaboration, and conflict resolution. Dr. Jorge Lohse, DVM, showcased the Emirates International Endurance Village and the United Arab Emirates commitment to equestrian sports. Joe De Francis and Steve Keech from the Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Authority demonstrated how data-driven partnerships advance equine welfare. Dr. Cody Egnor of the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service focused on disease mitigation, specifically Screwworm. David O’Connor of the United States Equestrian Federation, alongside Lieutenant Colonels Crawford and Draper of the 3rd Regiment, “The Old Guard,” shared insights on the Caisson’s revitalization, including how social license played a role in their improvement plans. (Listen to an earlier podcast on the improvements here.) Dr Amy McLean of the University of California, Davis, closed with an inspiring presentation on donkeys and mules.
Tuesday: Tackling Big Challenges
Tuesday’s sessions tackled pressing issues head-on. Charles Cooper on behalf of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable provided a sweeping overview on public recreation opportunities and the challenges of keeping public land public. John Boatwright of the American Farm Bureau gave an outstanding update on workforce challenges confronting the agricultural sector.
Closing with Impact
The conference wrapped up with visits to agency and congressional offices, where industry leaders shared top priorities and challenges directly with policymakers.
Attendee Feedback
One attendee captured the spirit of the event: “The time is so well spent, the content interesting and important, and the collaboration so valuable. You have done an incredible job, and on behalf of anyone involved in this industry a huge thank you!!!!!”
The 2025 Conference was a powerhouse of innovation, advocacy, and collaboration—driving the equine industry forward and setting the stage for an even stronger future. To view the Highlights reel, give us a week and then check out the American Horse Council’s Youtube Channel.
About the American Horse Council
As the national association representing all segments of the horse industry in Washington, D.C., the American Horse Council works daily to represent equine interests and opportunities.