Lexington, KY – Sept. 20, 2019 – The National Horse Carriers Association(NHCA) held their General Membership Meeting on Friday, Sept. 13. The annual meeting invites members of the NHCA to come together for the purpose of education, welcoming new members and continuing the encouragement of high standards in the horse transportation industry.
Representatives from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Kentucky, Linda Goodman and Michael Stewart, presented proposed rule changes to the general assembly regarding the amount of hours drivers can be on the road and how to comply with the safety regulations.
“Discussing the rule proposal with the membership is very helpful in guiding us to stay compliant with all of the federal laws we need to adhere to,” said Marcy Roberts, Vice President of the National Horse Carriers Association. “Safety and being lawful are incredibly important to our organization and our members, which is why it is imperative to hire NHCA members to haul your horse. We are constantly educating our members and staying abreast of any law change that may affect transportation.”
Following the update from the FMCSA, Robert Dalton took center stage representing Adam Trailers for an in-person look at the craftsmanship of their high-quality trailers. Adam Trailers’ mission is dedicated to manufacturing the highest standard of trailers and to raise the bar in trailer innovation by using newly developed methods of imagination, energy and creativity. Dalton shared his vision for innovation and safety for the future of horse transportation.
The final guest of the NHCA General Membership Meeting was Laurie Mays of the Kentucky State Chamber of Commerce. Mays discussed her collaboration with several members of the NHCA. Mays is researching how to recruit potential drivers and staff for the horse transportation industry. NHCA member drivers go through a rigorous interview process that includes background checks and drug and alcohol testing to assure that only the safest, most capable drivers are accepted.
“Creating a potential pipeline of future team members is an investment in our businesses and organization,” said Roberts. “Putting horses’ safety first means hiring only the best people possible and training them for every situation. It’s important that we begin recruiting individuals for a career in the industry as early as possible.”
Halfway through the day, NHCA members were treated to a generous lunch together, sponsored by Berkley Equine & Cattle, a W.R. Berkley Company, the NHCA’s insurance carrier. Following lunch, new members of the NHCA were also welcomed, Musarro Transport and Charlie Gibson Horse Transport. Musarro Transport is a third-generation, family-owned business based out of Hudson, Ohio. Charlie Gibson Horse Transport is owned by Charlie and Debbie Gibson. Based out of Thorpe, Washington, the small, family-run operation can provide transportation needs in areas that may be challenging to find reliable horse transportation.
Founded in 1960, the NHCA has been a long standing advocate for the safety and education of horse transportation. There are over 30 members in the organization that work together to encourage the highest standards in the equine transportation industry and often utilize one another to ensure every customer has the best service possible, no matter how long or short their commute or how many horses are to be transported.
To learn more about the NHCA, visit their website and remember to always book your horse’s transportation with an NHCA member to assure your horse is given the utmost care and safety while traveling.