Students at West Virginia University now have the opportunity to pursue a minor in equine management through the Davis College of Agriculture, Forestry and Consumer Sciences.

According to Paul Lewis, director of the Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, the need for the minor is two-fold: Equine management is growing in the state and the indication of student interest is high.

In 2002, WVU Extension Service and faculty members of the Davis College evaluated the impact of the equine industry on West Virginias economy.

The study confirmed that the equine industry has a strong impact in the state, contributing an estimated $509 million in total industry output.

On the heels of the study and a gift of 20 horses from restaurateur Bob Evans, the College proposed to offer a minor in equine management.

Right now, since the industry is so large, there is a growing interest in equine management,Lewis said.The minor will provide students with the basic educational needs and enhance their opportunities for employment within the industry.

The program, which requires 16 hours of course credit and is the only one in the state, is designed for students who wish to advance their knowledge of equine management practices or find basic employment within the equine industry.

Officials say the minor will help students gain knowledge in the areas of reproduction, nutrition, health, training methods and design of facilities and economy of the industry. Students also will have the opportunity for field trips and hands-on experience.