During the Hayman fire of 2002, hundreds of horses were evacuated. The horse community from both Douglas and Elbert Counties responded to the need for volunteers and supplies to assist in the massive effort of transporting and the care and feeding of the displaced animals. In the aftermath of the fire, it was evident that an organization of the various horse clubs and horse owners was needed to continue with assisting in disaster rescue as well as to work closely with the county governments to make sure the collective voice of the horse community was heard.

With this in mind, the Douglas-Elbert County Horse Council was formed. The purpose of the council is:

~ To provide an association of persons having a common interest in the promotion and improvement of the horse industry in Douglas and Elbert Counties.

~ To provide disaster and emergency related horse rescue management and related education.

~ To educate and report the horse community horse related issues regarding land use, taxes and legislation at a county level.

~ To support trail development, safety, and open space, and to educate the horse community on these issues.

As horse owners in Douglas or Elbert County we are asking for your support and, equally important, your input for this new organization. Members may attend general membership meetings, will receive a quarterly newsletter, and can attend educational programs. According to then Council President Jim Harlan, "Membership in the Douglas-Elbert County Horse Council will give horse owners a say in the process which affects how they use and enjoy their horses. In addition to disaster rescue, the Council will work in conjuntion with the counties to preserve open space and protect horse owners rights.