AUGUSTA – The Northeast Horsemen’s Conference and Trade Show, featuring 25-plus nationally and regionally recognized experts talking horses, will celebrate its 15th year at the Augusta Civic Center Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 17-18.

The conference and trade show will run from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Featured will be a discussion on “Your Next Horse? Making The Appropriate and Suitable Choice” with Dr. Janelle Durrett-Tirrell, Sherrye Johnson-Trafton, Anna Welch and Sara Bradley as panelists.

Four of Maine’s pre-eminent farriers, with more than 100 years of combined experience, will return. Fred Bowers, Tom O’ Connell, John Trafton and Dave Whitaker will participate in an open discussion forum.

Bob Jeffreys and Suzanne Sheppard will team up to present sessions on cantering as well as dealing with misbehaving horses. They will also discuss the integration of natural horsemanship and classical training.

Lucile Bump will give a presentation on “Centered Riding’s Four Basics” as well as the biomechanics of the rider. Durrett-Tirrell will discuss veterinary issues and answer questions regarding health concerns.

Other presentations will be given on the combination of forage and feed; the basic understanding of horse-training philosophies and how riders can work through anxiety and fear; how to properly commence eventing; vacationing with your horse in Maine; what is adequate and appropriate insurance for the horse and homeowner; and the use of trails and the need to keep them safe and viable.

Dozens of vendors will exhibit equine products and services, from saddles and tack to feed, training facilities, insurance, clothing and accessories.

A fashion show featuring the latest in apparel and accessories, hosted by Katahdin Trail Saddlery of Newport, will take place in the trade show area at 1 and 4 p.m. Saturday and at 1 p.m. Sunday.

The equine photo contest and exhibition will return this year, giving all participants an opportunity to display their photos in a competition judged by attendees.

“This event has enjoyed steady growth year after year in Augusta, reflecting the appreciation of horse people in Maine and throughout the Northeast for our effort and their enjoyment of coming together at that time of year in a spirit of unity, fellowship and curiosity,” said show producer Tom Clark.

For more information, call 860-537-9119 or log on to www.nhcts.com.


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