Fall Horse Management Series

MSU Extension Fall Horse Management Series

Held at the Ionia County MSU Extension office, 50 East Sprague Rd. Ionia, MI, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

This fall, MSU Extension is offering a three-part Horse Management Series designed to help horse owners, barn managers, and enthusiasts strengthen their knowledge in key areas of equine care, safety, and facility management. Each session blends practical guidance with science-based information to support healthier horses and more resilient farm operations.

September 8 – Toxic Plants & Emergency Preparedness Participants will learn to identify common toxic plants found in Michigan pastures and fencerows, understand their effects on equine health, and explore strategies for prevention and control. The session also covers emergency preparedness for horse owners, including planning for natural disasters, accidents, and unexpected events to ensure both human and animal safety.

October 13 – Horse Nutrition & Pasture Management This session focuses on the foundations of equine nutrition, including forage quality, ration balancing, and seasonal feeding considerations. Attendees will also gain practical tools for effective pasture management—rotational grazing, soil health, and optimizing forage availability—to support long-term pasture productivity and horse wellbeing.

November 10 – Biosecurity in the Barn & Manure Management The final session highlights everyday biosecurity practices that reduce disease risks in barns, boarding facilities, and small farms. Participants will also explore manure management strategies that improve environmental stewardship, support pasture health, and maintain cleaner, safer farm environments.

Cost: $25 for the series