Tennessee Master Horse Program

The driving force behind the Tennessee Master Horse Program (TMHP) is to raise the level of education and improve overall success of horse owners and producers within the state. Additionally, by improving management practices and providing the opportunity for intellectual growth, equine producers and business owners can continue to expand this vital portion of Tennessee agriculture. By providing science-based, objective information, families, youth, and the community can generate or continue to build upon their existing knowledge base and ensure success of the equine industry for years to come.

Core Modules

Completion of core modules is required by each participant.

Waste Management – Core Module Improve your management of waste products to achieve pest control and reduce environmental impact

Equine Economics – Core Module Understand the financial aspects of maintaining horses, farms, and the economics of equine businesses

Equine Nutrition – Core Module Nutrition Discuss nutrients contained in forages and concentrates, assessment of body condition and body weight, nutrient requirement determination, and how to feed horses and other equids

Responsible Horse Ownership – Core Module Understand responsible horse ownership, role of the equine industry in Tennessee, and basic equine information

Pasture Management – Core Module Make the most out of your pastures by learning how to implement best practices and utilization of available pasture resources

Training Programs – Supplement Riding and training fundamentals are key to success in all disciplines

Equine Health – Core Module Discuss numerous aspects of equine health including vaccinations, diseases, parasites, and dental care

Supplemental Modules

Participant must complete at least two supplemental modules to complete the program requirements.

Modules include Youth Program, Developing Training Programs, Equine Senses, Communication and Herd Behavior, Stereotypical Behavior, Equine Law and Liability, and Hot Topics.

Hot topics can change with the needs of the industry. Past topic modules included drought management, emergency response, truck and trailer safety, and COVID-19 resources.

Upcoming Programs

State-Coordinated Tennessee Master Horse Program

Open to all individuals over 15 years of age. Tennessee residence is not required for registration.

2024 Program Dates and Topics:

Online Sessions

Each session will be held live on each date from 7-8:30pm Eastern time. Recorded sessions, handouts, and interactive activities will be available on each topic for access throughout the program.

• January 11: Extension Overview & Responsible Horse Ownership
• January 18: Nutrition I (Equine Digestive System, Feed Fundamentals, Forage Testing, Basic Rations)
• January 25: Nutrition II (Rations for Work, Growth, Lactation, and Feeding Special Conditions – Senior, Overweight/Underweight, IR/EMS)
• February 1: Waste Management and Economics
• February 8: Health I (Emergencies and Diseases/Vaccines
• February 15: Health II (Parasites and Dental)
• February 22: Pasture Management and Forage Testing
• February 29: Hoof Care
• March 7: Hot Topics and Graduation

In-Person Sessions

In-person sessions are not mandatory for participants but cost to attend is included in the registration price. Hands-on activities and concepts to apply directly to equine management, nutrition and health will be covered. Each session will cover the same information and are offered at multiple locations to reduce travel distance. Sessions will not be recorded.

• Eastern Region Horse Management Field Day – February 6, 2024 (Brehm Animal Science Building, Knoxville, TN) 5:00-9:00pm EST
• Central Region Horse Management Field Day – February 13, 2024 (MTREC, Spring Hill, TN) 5:00-9:00pm CST
• Western Region Horse Management Field Day – February 12, 2024 (First Farmers Co-op, Lexington, TN) 5:00-9:00pm CST

Registration Cost:

Early Bird Registration: $165 per person, open until December 31, 2023

Late Registration: $195 per person, open from January 1-15, 2024

Attendance is required in order to successfully complete the TMHP and receive incentive materials. Sessions will be recorded and posted along with activities to earn attendance credit if unable to attend sessions live. A minimum of 25 participants is required to hold the course.

The cost per person is NON-REFUNDABLE. The program fee includes a TMHP Manual, TMHP certificate, TMHP incentive materials, and one forage or soil test.

Williamson County TMHP

Williamson County Extension is offering a hybrid program beginning in January 2024. For more information on this program, click below.