SCUEC’S VISION: To build upon our existing world class equestrian facilities, promote nature-based programs, and provide equine education.
We are working to become a magnet in the Upstate for all equine activities, and to provide a positive impact improving the quality of life . . . for children and adults!
Beginning in late 2009, a group of citizens with the equestrian interests along with representatives of local governments, Clemson University, other educational institutions, and the Vision Plan leaders from Anderson, Pickens, & Oconee counties, came together to explore a collaboration to increase the importance of the equine presence in this region.
The three counties, with more than 11,000 horses, and an annual economic impact over $63 million, saw the need to expand and improve the facilities at Clemson’s T. Ed Garrison Arena, and some of the adjoining property making Clemson and its surrounding area a premier destination for equine sports competitions and other activities, and create a venue for cross-country and other multi-day competitions.
SCUEC Officers 2023-2024
Chairperson: Ashley Brady; Belton, SC
Vice-Chairperson: Robert Obermiller; Anderson, SC
Treasurer: Sara Kennedy; Seneca, SC
Secretary: Sara Kennedy; Seneca, SC
SCUEC IS CONTRIBUTING MANY WORKING HOURS FOR SUCCESSFUL PROGRAMS.
*** Our Accomplishments ***
- Coordination of new map for Fant’s Grove Trails
- Color coded trail marking for safe trail usage
- Designation of 911 numbers for trail heads
- Waterline to trailhead –maintained by SCUEC
- Porta-let at trailhead – maintained by SCUEC
- Hitching rail and pavement at trailhead
- Improvement of parking areas at CU Experimental Forest South Trail-heads
- Lighting for the outdoor warm-up ring at the T. Ed Garrison Arena
- Sound System Improvements to the T. Ed. Garrison Arena
- Upgrading of jumps at the T. Ed Garrison Arena
- Donation of competition Dressage Arena.
- Economic Impact Study of Equine Economy on the Oconee-Anderson-Pickens Counties
- Donation of stock trailer to the Anderson County Animal Control Department to aide in rescue of large animals
*** Our Ongoing Projects***
- Support of Youth Equine Programs
- Support the development of trails in Anderson, Pickens, and Oconee Counties
- Coordinate kiosks at trail-heads to assist all trail users
- Support the development of a new highway kiosk for T. Ed Garrison Arena
- Support of large animal rescue organizations when the need arises
SCUEC SUPPORTS THESE WORTHWHILE ORGANIZATIONS
Summer Saddle-up clinic is an extensiion of the Youth Jamboree that was started by Arabian youth owners as education and interest in the equine fields. Over the years it has developed into something much larger. Now any horse breed, adult / youth horse owner is invited to participate in the week long “camp”. SCUEC is a supporter for this worthy cause.
SOUTH CAROLINA 4-H HORSE PROGRAM
The SC 4-H Program has over 1000 youth participants. They have competed in South East Regional and Eastern National Championships. These competitions have helped our SC youth win prize monies and scholarships, along with developing leadership skills that will serve them throughout their adult lives. SCUEC is proud to support these youth and this Clemson Extension Program.
TRI-COUNTY TECHNICAL COLLEGE VET TECH EVENING STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP
TCTC offers a Vet Tech program that is recognized throughout the US, they even offer a part-time evening student program. Scholarships for part-time students are not available, yet they are hardworking (usually balancing a family, job, and their education), and deserving of some financial assistance too. Education in the equine industry is paramount to SCUEC, so in 2011 SCUEC started a scholarship specifically for those part-time students. This cooperation has proven to be beneficial to all involved.
The T. Ed Garrison Arena at Clemson University is the only full service, public, multi-purpose livestock facilities in South Carolina. The Arena was designed to promote the state’s billion-dollar livestock. The events held at the arena draw thousands of visitors to Clemson and South Carolina, boost tourism, and contribute to economic development not only in the upstate, but also throughout the entire state of South Carolina. SCUEC recognizes the impact this facility currently has, and believes in its ability to grow creating an even more impressive impact to the state of South Carolina. The T. Ed Garrison Arena is solely supported by revenue generated by the Arena.
CLEMSON UNIVERSITY EXPERIMENTAL FOREST SOUTH
The Clemson Experimental Forest is managed for a maintained yield of forest products including timber, clean water and air, and wildlife. The Clemson Experimental Forest trail system is divided into three areas: Todd’s Creek, Issaquena, and Fant’s Grove. The trails are used for teaching, research and public recreation. Public recreation use of the trails includes bird watching, mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding. Fishing and hunting are also allowed in the forest and are regulated by South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. The Clemson Experimental Forest personnel, equipment, supplies, roads, recreation facilities and maintenance are solely supported by revenue generated by the Forest.
WE ALSO SUPPORT VARIOUS LARGE ANIMAL RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.