Temecula Equestrian Coalition

The Seven Pillars

Seven Pillars That Drive our Mission

Seven pillars form the foundation of a thriving equestrian culture. Each reflects a critical area where unified effort can protect Temecula’s rural character, strengthen our equine economy, and preserve the heritage we hold dear. These key success factors guide our advocacy, programs, and partnerships to ensure that horses, landowners, and our shared way of life remain rooted and resilient for generations to come.

LAND USE & ZONING PROTECTIONS

  • Rural & Agricultural Zoning: Ensuring equestrian properties are protected from urban sprawl and high-density development.
  • Open Space Preservation: Maintaining large properties and natural landscapes for riding, ranching, and breeding.
  • Trail Protection: Keeping multi-use and equestrian-only trails accessible and free from motorized traffic or non-horse-friendly uses..

INFRASTRUCTURE & FACILITIES

  • Equestrian Trails & Riding Areas: Well-maintained public and private trails with clear signage and safety features.
  • Boarding & Training Facilities: High-quality stables, riding arenas, and specialized training centers.
  • Horse-Friendly Roads & Crossings: Dedicated bridle paths, safe road crossings, and vehicle awareness programs.
  • Equestrian Parks & Showgrounds: Spaces for events, competitions, and educational clinics.

CULTURAL & HISTORICAL PRESERVATION

  • Recognition of Equestrian Heritage: Celebrating the history of horses in the region through festivals, museums, and historical landmarks.
  • Storytelling & Media Representation: Encouraging local publications, documentaries, and online communities that promote and educate about the equestrian way of life.
  • Traditions & Lifestyle: Keeping ranching, breeding, and traditional horse disciplines alive through family-owned businesses and generational knowledge transfer.

ECONOMIC VIABILITY & BUSINESS ECOSYSTEM

  • Sustainable Equine Industry: A thriving network of trainers, veterinarians, farriers, feed stores, tack shops, and equestrian service providers.
  • Wineries & Equestrian Tourism: Areas like Temecula Valley can benefit from integrated horse-wine tourism, offering trail rides to vineyards, equestrian-themed events, and agritourism experiences.
  • Events & Competitions: Showcasing the region’s equestrian talent through rodeos, jumping, dressage, cutting, reining, and polo while drawing spectators, supporting local businesses, and strengthening the equine economy.

LEGISLATIVE & LEGAL PROTECTION

  • Land Conservation Programs: Easements and land trusts that protect equestrian land from future development.
  • Equestrian-Friendly Laws: Local ordinances that support horse ownership, boarding businesses, and equestrian land use.
  • Liability Protections: Laws that protect property owners and event organizers from undue liability in case of equestrian-related incidents.

STRONG COMMUNITY & ADVOCACY GROUPS

  • Local Horse Clubs & Associations: Independent equestrian groups that host activities, advocate at the local level, and cultivate community engagement within the broader equestrian landscape.
  • Engaged Residents & Business Owners: A community that values and actively participates in equestrian activities.
  • Educational & Youth Programs: Programs like 4-H, Pony Club, and school partnerships to encourage younger generations to participate in the equestrian lifestyle.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

  • Responsible Land Stewardship: Practices like rotational grazing, manure management, and water conservation to ensure long-term sustainability.
  • Wildlife & Habitat Protection: Preserving natural areas where horses and native wildlife can coexist.
  • Drought & Fire Preparedness: Given California’s climate, equestrian communities must have fire evacuation plans, emergency water sources, and disaster preparedness strategies.

The greatest challenge is finding balance, protecting horses, riders, and the equestrian way of life while still allowing for thoughtful progress and sustainable growth.

Moving Forward as One Community

Rooted in these pillars, the Temecula Equestrian Coalition strives to be both a unifying voice for land use and heritage and a catalyst for collaboration. We envision chamber-style gatherings, workshops, and networking opportunities that empower our industry, spark innovation, and strengthen relationships. Together, we can build a resilient and connected community dedicated to protecting what matters most.