EQUINE MARKETING UPDATE

Feed vs. Coggins Test

OABA met with the Ohio Farm Bureau and equine association leaders to discuss Senate Bill 37, which would establish an equine marketing program in Ohio.

As written, the language allows for equine feed to be assessed a check-off fee to generate dollars for equine industry promotion. While OABA is not opposed to the marketing program, we are concerned about the use of equine feed as a check-off vehicle.

OABA supports a fee attached to the Coggins test (blood test for equine infectious anemia). The Coggins test is required annually for equine being moved within the state for show or
competition. Another avenue could be an assessment on various equine association membership dues or breed registrations. OABA believes either one of these options are fairer and would be a more direct link to those who will benefit from an equine marketing program.

The Ohio Department of Agriculture has some reservation about the use of the Coggins test because of a new fee structure for the test along with the lack of a requirement for the test to be administered in Ohio.

All the parties involved will continue to work together to present a program which would glean the broadest base of support.