About
About
Lora has been committed to developing safe trails for all trail users since 1989. Her experience spans various natural resource positions, such as conservation, maintenance, and a twenty-five-year tenure as a law enforcement ranger. She stands out as one of the rare equestrian trail specialists with profound insight into recreational equestrian trail rider requirements, backed by hands-on expertise in:
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best practice horse keeping
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community involvement
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law enforcement issues and strategies
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equestrian needs & challenges on trails
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equine behavior
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mounted patrol operations
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multiuse trail issues and conflict resolution
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natural resource management
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programming
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trail riding
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trail standards, planning and maintenance in natural areas
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trail use patterns
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volunteerism - oversight, standards, scope
In addition to thirty-six years in the field, she earned a Bachelor of Science in environmental studies/resource management and an associate degree in equestrian studies. Work, education and personal experience have woven together seamlessly to create a uniquely qualified, neutral horse trail expert and consultant.
Upon realizing the complex disconnects that exist between equestrians, park personnel and other user groups, Lora began writing and educating with the goal of creating safer trails and a better understanding of recreational equestrian trail riders and their simple, yet unique needs. She has presented at the following park conferences:
Great Lakes Park Training Institue
Upcoming in February 2025
The Park Ranger Institute - Board Member since 2015
North Carolina
January 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2020, 2022
(2021 cancelled due to Covid),
April 2022,
March 2023, 2024
Upcoming March 2025
COSA (Colorado Open Space Alliance) Vail, Colorado 2020
(Cancelled due to Covid)
American Trails International Symposium
Portland, Oregon 2015
Syracuse, New York 2019
Ohio Parks and Recreation Conference
Columbus, Ohio 2012
Atlanta, Georgia 2011
Contributing Writer
American Trails
Horse Trails of America
Articles Featured in:
AERC - 2021 Endurance News
Connecticut Horse Council - 2021 Spring/Summer Newsletter
Endurance.Net - 2019 E-newsletter
Wisconsin Horse Council - 2015 Newsletter
Toledo Area Bike Club - Newsletter 2011
LA County Trails - County website
Photo by Art Weber
I have been a dedicated trail rider and horse owner since 1986, and what a journey it has been! I've had the joy of riding, starting, and re-schooling a variety of breeds across so many exciting disciplines. In my spare time, I dive into photography, writing, and all things outdoors—trail riding, cycling, kayaking, hiking, camping (with and without my horses), cross-country skiing, and I even craft unique horsehair keepsakes! I'm on a mission to cycle every rail-trail in the United States and dream of completing a thrilling thru-hike or horseback ride. Right now, my amazing trail companions include a newly acquired Tennessee Walker gelding, and a Morgan cross sport-horse gelding.