Governor declares April 1-7 as Horse Appreciation Days

To recognize the long heritage and broad impact of Delaware's equine industry, Gov. Jack Markell declared April 1-7 as Horse Appreciation Days in Delaware, in conjunction with the annual Delaware Horse Expo.

“Delaware has a strong and vibrant equine industry, which provides thousands of jobs from veterinarians to trainers,” Markell said. “Events like the Delaware Horse Expo help introduce even more people, especially young people, to a lifelong passion for horses, and I am pleased to help recognize this growing sector of our agricultural economy.”

Secretary of Agriculture Ed Kee said the Department of Agriculture is committed to supporting and strengthening the equine industry.

"Horses add so much beauty, grace and talent to our state, with an estimated economic impact of $360 million," Kee said. "From our racing commissions to our veterinary inspectors, we firmly support the industry's success by protecting the security of racing and by protecting the health of your animals."

The proclamation was presented to the Delaware Equine Council at its scholarship dinner March 23 by Sen. Gary Simpson, R-Milford, and Rep. Bobby Outten, R-Harrington.