Proposed Expansion for REACH Huron
The Phase II project works include several different and distinct elements that are all necessary for the successful expansion of the REACH Huron business offerings. These include equine services, education, facility rental and the hosting of large and small scale events.
The summary of proposed works is a follows:
1) Two horse/livestock barns to house up to 200 animals.
2) 40 full-service RV sites.
3) Show grounds, including event participant and vendor parking, 150 x 300 lighted show ring and 200 x 200 outdoor warm up ring.
4) Green Care” community garden/food production social enterprise.
The permanent nature of the proposed barns provides an opportunity for shows, clinics and auctions throughout the year, whereas most competitive show facilities only offer seasonal accommodation.
The addition of the RV sites is absolutely essential for REACH Huron to attract those who participate in the large equine show circuits, as well as for those who participate in non-equine recreational activities such as hiking, bird watching and trail riding.
“Despite a continually growing enthusiasm for equestrian sport, Ontario has been lacking
a world class facility that can handle trailer parking, stalling for horses indoors, indoor
warm-up area and a bright, quality indoor show arena. This has resulted in causing many
of our riders to have to travel to the USA on a regular basis, especially in the fall/winter/spring months.
The opening of REACH has changed much of that… However, the lack of stalls really is a concern to us.”
-David Clingen,
Ontario Barrel Racing Association (OBRA), Co-President
“…Another advantage that REACH Huron has is the indoor facilities and with the construction of
permanent show barns the season for shows and competitions extends well beyond what any
possible competition could offer.”
-Terry Cronin,
Ontario High School Rodeo Association
The social enterprise garden and food production elements will provide educational workspace and production facilities to host vocational training for specialized client groups and a Therapeutic Care outlet for the healthcare industry.
There will always be a need in the region for equine services, facility rentals and education.
The equine industry in much of Ontario is experiencing significant growth that is expected to continue, due to a number of factors. The “Greenbelt” legislation in the province of Ontario and the Provincial Policy Statement ensuring the preservation of agricultural lands outside of the Greenbelt will ensure that Huron County continues to have the ability to meet the development of horse farms, whereas the traditional sport horse regions, particularly within the GTA, will see a decrease in the number of farms.
Additionally, it is reported that the vast majority of equine industry members (86%) intend to stay in the industry for as long as possible, indicating that the current popularity of the market will be a lasting trend.
Every community requires a facility to provide room rentals for various events. Most communities, however, do not have access to facilities anywhere near the calibre of REACH with the vast variety of room types and equipment options available here.
With the current unprecedented demand for agricultural products and the serious challenges facing the agricultural industry today, it is clear that there is a need for organizations to take the lead in preparing industry members and future generations for the numerous changes that will affect agriculture over the next several years.
Huron County leads all counties and regions in Ontario in the total value of agricultural production. The demand for agricultural education and demonstration worldwide is strong, and with Huron County being such a predominantly agricultural area, it makes perfect sense to have such a centre located in the heart of the county.
Because agriculture is affected by so many conditions, its participants must always be prepared
to react, to adapt, and to think ahead…is the next generation of leaders in agriculture prepared
to address these critical demands on our agricultural systems?
-National Academy of Sciences, 3, 2009
Equine education too, is in much demand as illustrated by the success of REACH Huron’s equine programs to date, as well as by the industry studies and surveys that overwhelmingly demonstrate a greater demand and interest in education and vocational training from all sectors of the equine industry.
…the number of horse farms is on the increase and participation is seemingly at or near an all time high” and
…one of the main challenges confronting the horse industry…is a lack of education.”
-Exchange Magazine, May 2007
“We need to better educate the horse owners on proper handling of horses and
safe training practices. This is important for the safety of both the horse handler
and horses themselves. This affects the association and the Industry.”
-Nanda Steenbeek, Secretary
Ontario Friesian Horse Association
Regional Diversification
The proposed project will have positive long term impacts on the region’s economic diversity. These impacts will include the following:
1) An increased number of new industries established in southern Ontario that will help diversify and create new longer-term opportunities in regional or community economies
2) Enhanced economic diversification and sustainability of southern Ontario regions
3) Creation of long-term employment and high-value jobs
4) The creation and strengthening of market-oriented collaborative initiatives or strategic alliances.
The expansion will ensure the sustainability of REACH Huron as a whole, which in itself improves the economic sustainability of the area. The proposed works will directly contribute to the creation of new industries in the region and the project will also have a significant positive impact by strengthening existing industries.
The new opportunities will derive from educational, event, and sport horse industries. The expansion of existing opportunities will come from the existing retail, tourism, hospitality, and facility supply industries.
