Renting an Arena Strengthens Youth Horsemanship in Cortez

Horsemanship is an essential skill in many rural communities across the Mountain West. Montezuma County Extension’s 4-H Horse Project offers children between 8 – 18 years old the opportunity to strengthen their riding skills and learn rider etiquette. However, some students and families have found it increasingly difficult to partake in the program due to rising costs driven in part by arena rental hikes at the county fairgrounds. One volunteer wanted to ensure that more families could participate by covering some of the program’s costs. In need of support, she reached out to LOR. LOR’s funding will help the program purchase 13 helmets and rent the arena at the county fairgrounds for a year, ensuring that the next generation of riders can continue to grow and learn.