Rule 37.98.1709 - HIGH ADVENTURE REQUIREMENTS: HORSEBACK RIDING(1) All horseback riding activities must be supervised by a horseback riding supervisor who must have at least one of the following: (a) a certificate from a nationally recognized horseback riding organization or riding school; or(b) written verification of successful experience in formal horseback riding instruction or equivalent horseback riding experience.(2) The horseback riding supervisor shall train a sufficient number of riding staff members in the supervision of youth in the horseback riding program for the anticipated size of the riding program.(3) Riding staff must be trained by the horseback riding supervisor in emergency procedures appropriate to the horseback riding activity.(4) Any trail excursion must comply with the following: (a) At least two trained riding staff members, one of whom holds a current American red cross community first aid and safety certificate or equivalent, shall accompany each trail excursion.(b) If the horseback ride is for seven or more nights or is more than one hour away from emergency medical services, there must be at least one staff member with each group of youth with wilderness first responder training, CPR and medication administration training.(c) If more than 20 youth participate in the trail excursion, in addition to the two trained riding staff members required by (4) (a), there must be an additional trained riding staff member assigned for each additional 10 or fewer riders.(5) First aid supplies must be carried on each trail excursion and available at each horseback riding ring/arena.(6) No person is allowed in the riding area unless the horseback riding supervisor or a trained riding staff member is present.(7) The riding supervisor shall determine each youth's riding experience and level of skills and shall take these into account in assigning which horse each youth should ride and determining the type of riding activity in which each youth should engage.(8) Youth must be given instruction in basic safety, which must include at least the following: (a) riding rules in the ring and on the trail; and(b) how to approach, mount and dismount.(9) Youth must be appropriately dressed for riding, including wearing appropriate shoes or boots. The riding supervisor shall evaluate the footgear of each youth and make the stirrups safe for each youth's shoe or boot.(10) Helmets are mandatory for youths engaged in ring riding and trail rides.(11) The horseback riding equipment must be in good condition, properly sized and adjusted for each rider.(12) The horse barn or stable, ring and commonly used trails must be in good repair and free of dangerous obstructions.(13) Horses must be cared for with evidence of an adequate feeding schedule and a means to care for sick horses.(14) Horses may not be permitted in the other designated activity areas.Mont. Admin. r. 37.98.1709
NEW, 2004 MAR p. 1960, Eff. 8/6/04.Sec. 50-5-220, MCA; IMP, Sec. 50-5-220, MCA;