May 17, 2007: Equestrian Symposium at Chelsea Mansion, East Norwich

On Thursday, May 17, the Nassau Land Trust collaborated with Nassau County Legislator Diane Yatauro to present a talk on the conservation of equestrian lands. The talk was part of a horse-issues symposium that Legislator Yatauro organized for her constituents and interested local residents.

The number of stables and horse farms in our area has been declining for years, as have other equestrian resources like riding trails and equine care facilities — the result of rising property prices and poorly planned development. Consequently, our local equestrian heritage, which dates back centuries, is disappearing.

"Our open space is dwindling at an alarming rate, and Nassau County's horse owners are particularly feeling the squeeze. As a Nassau County representative, I feel it is my duty to do what I can to bring education to the community and work to preserve as much land as possible," said Legislator Yatauro to the horse owners and farm managers gathered at Chelsea Mansion in East Norwich.

Tim Caufield of the Peconic Land Trust addressed the group on how land conservation can help property owners who want their land to continue being used for equestrian purposes, using examples of horse properties his organization has helped protect in Suffolk County. Nassau Land Trust Chairman Lloyd Zuckerberg assured the audience that the same conservation tools that have proven effective on the East End can work in Nassau County too.

The symposium's other speakers were Dr. Lyda Denney of the New York State Horse Assurance Program, and Sherry Forgash of the Nassau County Soil and Water Conservation District.

If you would like to learn about ways to conserve your land, please call us.

NLT in the News: Keeping Equestrian Culture Alive