Old Farms, New Purpose: The Case for Horses in the UP (Equestrian Industry Stats)

 While many say a dog is man’s best friend, the horse could easily be added to that list. Horses have an extraordinarily long history with people, and horseback riding remains deeply woven into societies and economies around the world. It contributes significantly to recreation, tourism, and sport. According to the article referenced below, the equine industry in the United States contributes approximately $144 billion to the economy and supports about 1.7 million jobs.

Horse riding in
the UP. A hunt
club would be cool.
Abundance of trails.

Working with horses takes time, energy, and commitment. It often takes years to become proficient, and most people who enter equestrian sports begin with lessons—for safety reasons and to better understand horse behavior. While there are different techniques and disciplines—such as polo, barrel racing, jumping, dressage, pleasure riding, and others—they all share common fundamentals. Above all, riders must feel comfortable, balanced, and connected with the horse.

Rural economies and long-abandoned farms may offer strong opportunities for raising and training horses. While California has a well-established equine industry, I often think about the Upper Peninsula of Michigan—particularly Delta County—as a promising place for this kind of work. Land is relatively affordable, and many older farms are underutilized, making them suitable for investment, whether in horses, farming, or a hybrid of both.

Recently, I spent time practicing and training in the saddle. I’ve been riding for many years, and there’s always something new to learn. Sometimes I play polo (I didn't say well); other times I ride purely for enjoyment. I’ve owned horses before, trained a few, and even sold one for more than I paid for it—though still likely less than the total cost of boarding, care, and medical expenses that come with responsible horse ownership. It’s something I’d consider doing again.

Horseback riding also offers meaningful physical and social benefits. Equestrian communities tend to be close-knit. People travel together, attend shows and clinics, exchange horses, gear, and tack, and share knowledge gained over years of experience. Physically, riding develops balance, coordination, and body awareness. Staying connected to the horse—at any speed, or even with a nervous or reactive animal—is essential. In more demanding sports like polo or barrel racing, that balance becomes even more critical. A rider’s posture and movement directly influence the horse’s behavior, making body mechanics a key part of communication.

The study linked below explores the scope and impact of the equine industry in the United States and provides useful insight into its economic and cultural significance.

The Economic Impact of the Equine Industry US