July 12, 2007

USRider Urges Horse Owners to Minimize Environmental Impact

Lexington, Ky. (July 12, 2007) – Involvement with Horses is the ultimate back-to-nature experience for many of us. However, it can come with a price to the environment.

An unpleasant fact for horse owners is that transporting their animals requires the use of heavy-duty vehicles that use more energy than most passenger cars.

The issue of global warming (now commonly referred to as climate change) has several sides. Some people feel that the changes in our planet’s climate are due to natural cycles and events. Others believe the changes are the result of greenhouse gases emitted by human activity. Regardless of your opinions on the issue, it’s imperative that everyone does his or her part to help reduce or slow the worst consequences of climate change.

USRider believes that future technological advancements in tow vehicles will minimize the impact of vehicles on the environment. However, horse owners can take several steps now to minimize their impact on the environment.

“Horse owners can do their part to reduce their fuel consumption with practical travel tips that actually work,” said Mark Cole, managing member for USRider.

Improve your fuel economy – as well as your safety and the safety of your Horses – by following these simple tips:

• Drive more efficiently.
• Keep your vehicle properly tuned.
• Plan and combine trips.
• Choose a more efficient vehicle.

Through its Equestrian Motor Plan, USRider offers nationwide roadside assistance especially for equestrians. The plan includes standard features such as flat-tire repair, battery assistance and lockout services, plus towing up to 100 miles and roadside repairs for tow vehicles and trailers with Horses, emergency stabling, veterinary and farrier referrals, and more.

USRider offers several suggestions for conserving fuel while traveling. These tips work for most vehicles.

A key to maximizing fuel efficiency is to maintain your tow vehicles. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for regular maintenance.

Minimize Environmental Impact

• Keep Engine Properly Tuned – Depending upon the kind of repair done, this can result in an average 4 percent increase in fuel efficiency. Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor can improve fuel mileage as much as 40 percent.
• Check and Replace Air Filter – Replacing a clogged air filter can improve your vehicle's mileage up to 10 percent.
• Keep Tires Properly Inflated – Proper inflation can increase mileage by around 3 percent. An added benefit is that properly inflated tires are safer and last longer.
• Use Recommended Grade of Motor Oil – Using the incorrect weight can increase fuel consumption by 1-2 percent. Look for motor oil that says “Energy Conserving” on the API performance symbol to be sure it contains friction-reducing additives.

If your tow vehicle is an older model, consider purchasing a new tow vehicle. New vehicles have more power but use less fuel. Another item worth considering is to switch from a tow vehicle that uses gasoline to one that uses diesel, as current diesel technology is more fuel efficient.

In addition to maintaining your tow vehicle, USRider offers vehicle operation tips that will help reduce the impact on the environment:

• Drive Sensibly – Aggressive driving can lower your fuel mileage by one-third. Sensible driving is also safer for your horse(s).
• Observe the Speed Limit – The Department of Energy says that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.21 for each gallon of fuel. Driving the speed limit has the added benefit of increasing safety.
• Avoid Excessive Idling – Idling gets 0 miles per gallon.
• Use Cruise Control – Using cruise control (where applicable) helps you maintain a constant speed and, in most cases, will save fuel. Do not use cruise control if you are tired or fatigued. In fact, if you are tired or fatigued, you shouldn’t be trailering Horses.
• Use Overdrive Gears – When your engine speed goes down, your mileage goes up. An added benefit is that using overdrive gears reduces engine wear.
• Lighten the Load – Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle.
• Do Not Use the Tow Vehicle as a Passenger Car. When not towing, drive a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle.

“These measures have a triple benefit – they reduce the detrimental impacts automobiles have on the environment, result in fuel savings for horse owners and improve safety for everyone. That’s a win-win-win situation,” said Cole.

For more information about USRider and more equine trailer safety tips, visit the USRider website at www.usrider.org, or call (800) 844-1409 or visit www.usrider.org.

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