Description
The Forages for Horses program began in Ohio in1998 as a collaboration between the Ohio Forages & Grasslands Council and Ohio State University Extension. Over time, additional collaborations with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ohio Department of Agriculture and local Soil and Water Conservation Districts expanded the program. At its inception, one to three educators would partner to provide eight hours of in-person lectures followed by a pasture walk to better the management practices of equine enthusiasts. From 2021 through 2022, the curriculum was adapted for a hybrid classroom and included three 90-minute live webinars featuring nine different presentations followed by online social events. The modifications to the curriculum were made to improve access to equine resources and grazing education across Ohio. The Forages for Horses resources were also updated as part of the process. Learning modules posted in Canvas (an online learning management system) provided additional information that expanded upon the original curriculum. In 2022, 41 students from Ohio and surrounding states registered for the online course and webinars. Participants were able to hear directly from educators - more than in past iterations of the program– to expand their depth of knowledge and increase opportunities for participation without the location of the class posing a barrier for attendance. This program will continue to be revised over the coming years to remain relevant and accessible to Ohioans.
Included in
Agricultural Science Commons, Agronomy and Crop Sciences Commons, Plant Biology Commons, Plant Pathology Commons, Soil Science Commons, Weed Science Commons
Forages for Horses Revamped
The Forages for Horses program began in Ohio in1998 as a collaboration between the Ohio Forages & Grasslands Council and Ohio State University Extension. Over time, additional collaborations with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ohio Department of Agriculture and local Soil and Water Conservation Districts expanded the program. At its inception, one to three educators would partner to provide eight hours of in-person lectures followed by a pasture walk to better the management practices of equine enthusiasts. From 2021 through 2022, the curriculum was adapted for a hybrid classroom and included three 90-minute live webinars featuring nine different presentations followed by online social events. The modifications to the curriculum were made to improve access to equine resources and grazing education across Ohio. The Forages for Horses resources were also updated as part of the process. Learning modules posted in Canvas (an online learning management system) provided additional information that expanded upon the original curriculum. In 2022, 41 students from Ohio and surrounding states registered for the online course and webinars. Participants were able to hear directly from educators - more than in past iterations of the program– to expand their depth of knowledge and increase opportunities for participation without the location of the class posing a barrier for attendance. This program will continue to be revised over the coming years to remain relevant and accessible to Ohioans.
