We looked at several options of books to recommend to equestrians who want ideas and guidance on reducing their environmental “hoofprint.” Published in 2009, the Green Guide for Horse Owners and Riders seems to offer the most current and in-depth information for both owners/managers of large-herd facilities and the average horse owner/rider.
Topics addressed in author Heather Cook’s 231 page paperback include: green building construction, working with – not against – your barn site’s ecosystem, manure “recycling,” eco-friendly products, and general reuse ideas. We consider this book a good primer that belongs on the bookshelf of any equestrian interested in becoming more environmentally friendly.
For those seeking more specific information on sustainable land and watershed management practices, check out the USDA’s Alternative Farming Systems Information Center. At the outset, a focus on sustainable stable practices can seem daunting, but even the smallest steps you take to “go green” make a difference for the planet.
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My friend did a big school project called “Greening Your Hoofprint” she used this book as a reference. She let me look at it a bit and it was really awesome if you are at all into trying to make your hoofprint on the ecosystem of your farm smaller this book has lots of easy ideas!!