Equine Nutrition, Pasture Systems, and Exercise Physiology

Equine nutrition is being studied by five graduate students. Courses are taken in Blacksburg, and research is conducted at the Middleburg Agricultural Research and Extension Center (www.vaes.vt.edu then click on Middleburg). This center provides a unique opportunity for studies of pasture systems for horses. Emphasis is placed on mares and foals, reproduction and growth. The aims are to improve the performance of horses and, at the same time, protect and enhance the land. A high-speed treadmill is used for studies of nutrition, training and exercise in young or mature horses.

Faculty:

• R. K. Splan: Equine Nutrition