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Most Ohio farmers that produce feed understand the importance of having livestock such as hogs and cattle in the state. But a segment of the livestock industry that is sometimes overlooked is one of the fastest growing.

According to a recent nationwide study by the American Horse Council, there are 306,898 horses in Ohio. That's an increase of more than 50 percent in the last decade, according to David White, executive director of the Ohio Livestock Coalition, who said farmers should take note of this.

"Any time you have a segment of your industry grow that fast, it's obvious you have to be concerned about working closely with them," he said.

White added that the sector of the feed industry that includes horse feed is one of the most prominent and profitable.

"If you're a corn and soybean farmer, you need to see how you can take advantage of this opportunity," he said.

The study showed that in addition to ranking 6th in the nation in number of horses, Ohio's equine industry contributes more than $2.2 billion to the economy. It also provides more than 43,000 full-time equivalent jobs.

"This study paints a portrait of an industry that operates in every corner of the country and contributes mightily to the American economy and culture. Never before has the impact of our industry been so dramatically demonstrated," said Jay Hickey, American Horse Council president.

White, who also serves as OFBF's director of commodity relations, said Farm Bureau is interested in continuing to work with the equine industry. He said OFBF's new Equine Environmental and Liability Awareness Program is one example of the benefits the organization offers to horse owners. The program provides training on environmental and legal issues specific to Ohio's equine industry. White said that environmental complaints about horse farms have recently been increasing.

"The equine industry by and large probably has a more positive image than the rest of agriculture," he said. Horse owners and other segments of agriculture should work together to see what they can learn from each other, he said.

OFBF is also supporting Senate Bill 37, which would allow for an equine marketing and promotion program. Proponents say the program could interest more Ohioans in the equine industry as well as draw in prospective horse buyers from out of state.

White said it’s important to first get the bill passed, noting that the equine industry would then be responsible for working out the details of how the program is administered.

"This is the first step of many steps," he said.