-BANGOR (AP) – A recent study has concluded that the direct and indirect economic impact of the horse industry in Maine totals $400 million.

The study by Planning Decisions Inc. of Portland pegged direct, in-state sales at more than $200 million. But when purchases along the supply chain and by industry employees are factored in, the Bangor Daily News said the figure approaches $400 million.

While no one knows for sure how many horses are in Maine, a conservative guess puts the figure at 35,000, which is more than the number of dairy cows.

Horses in Maine are used for work, driving, pleasure, equitation, therapy, competition, lessons, trail riding and racing.