Off Season Horse Riding on the Beach

Last week the town proposed a new ordinance that would allow people to ride horses on the beach from November 1 - March 30.  Riders would need a seasonal permit, which would cost $50 per horse and would be allowed on the beach from 6 am - 7 pm.

Personally, I am somewhat torn by the idea.  I think it's a great idea for tourism, and could help promote some of our local stables.  Our surrounding area has a rich history in horses, being one of the centers for American thoroughbred racing.  Many champion horses were raised and trained here, including Man O' War.  Plus, knowing the success of Assateague Island, where people can visit the wild ponies, there is clearly a interest in horses at the beach.

I can really only see two drawbacks to this.  One, how would they handle waste?  Currently there is a $500 fine for anyone who doesn't pick up pet waste, but this may prove slightly more difficult while riding a horse verse walking a dog.  As a huge supporter for the MD Coastal Bays Program, picking up pet waste is a major concern for the health of our waterways.  Pet waste encourage bacterial growth in our water, leading to health concerns and can kill marine life.  (Check out Shore Bread's Article - Don't be a Poop-A-Traitor for more info).  Although I am no expert, I simply can't image Horse waste to be any better for our waterways... it also happens to be on a larger scale....  

Finally, the second draw back would be how this would affect winter beach goers and dog owners.  Currently, during these same months we are able to let our dogs out on the beach, leashed of course.  As long as owners keep dogs leashed, and horse riders can properly control their horses I'm sure there wouldn't be an issue.  But you never know, there is always a few bad apples in every bunch.  I'd hate to see an animal or person get hurt in the mix.

If these two things could be controlled, I say give horses the green light!  It could be a great draw to the area during our off season.

What do you think? Are you a supporter?