The Regional Equine & Agricultural Centre of Huron Inc. (REACH Huron) is a Canadian nonprofit organization based in Clinton, Ontario. It serves as a premier equine and agricultural event facility in southwestern Ontario, focusing on education, events, and industry support for the equine and large animal agriculture sectors.

Overview

REACH Huron operates as a nonprofit corporation that functions as a "motel for education," offering innovative programming alongside recreational activities to support both the equine and agricultural industries. The Centre supports a broad range of large animal sector industries, including horses, beef and dairy cattle, sheep, and swine, reflecting significant percentages of Ontario’s respective livestock populations within a one-hour driving radius.

Location

The Centre is located in Clinton, Ontario, which is situated in the heart of Huron County. It is approximately 78 kilometers north of London, Ontario, and 97 kilometers west of Kitchener. The facility is conveniently near the intersection of Provincial Highways 4 and 8, providing accessible regional connectivity.

Facilities and Services

REACH Huron offers various facilities tailored to equine and agricultural events, including an agricultural arena and outdoor venues suitable for roping, sorting, and other agricultural activities. It also houses an Education & Administration Centre, providing space for post-secondary educational programs and training.

Education and Partnerships

The Centre has established partnerships with educational institutions such as Fanshawe College and the University of Guelph, particularly the Guelph Ridgetown Campus. These collaborations allow REACH Huron to host post-secondary education programs related to agriculture and equine studies. The Centre also participates in initiatives with Contact North, expanding access to educational opportunities.

Industry Significance

REACH Huron plays a critical role in supporting Ontario's large animal industries. Within its regional reach, the surrounding area is home to approximately 123,000 horses (32% of Ontario's horse population), 316,000 beef cattle (48% of Ontario's beef population), 261,000 dairy cattle (47% of Ontario's dairy population), 139,000 sheep (44% of Ontario's sheep population), and 2,950,000 pigs (79% of Ontario's swine population). This makes it a vital hub for agricultural events and educational programming tailored to these industries.

Activities and Events

The Centre regularly hosts a variety of events, from agricultural fairs and equestrian competitions to educational workshops and community gatherings. These events are designed to promote industry development, community engagement, and knowledge exchange within the agricultural and equine sectors.

The Regional Equine & Agricultural Centre of Huron Inc. continues to be a key institution within Ontario's agricultural landscape, fostering education, supporting industry growth, and facilitating community involvement through its diverse programs and facilities.