One of David Esworthy’s last duties as president of the Langley Horse Federation was to ask Township council to consider setting aside funds in next year’s budget to complete a horse trail connection between Campbell Valley Park and Aldergrove.
Council did not act on the suggestion, nor on the LHF’s research into the practicalities of locating an exhibition facility and Agricultural Centre of Excellence in Langley.
A 2005 report to council highlighted the viability of such a facility, Esworthy reminded council.
“Subsequent research has confirmed not only the viability but the need for such a structure, with strong support from the horse and farm sectors as well as the general public,” Esworthy said.
The horse and farm reference was timely. The next evening, the LHF voted to change its name to the Langley Horse and Farm Federation. Carla Robin was named president.
Esworthy told council that an Agricultural Centre of Excellence could provide a much-needed home for the crowded B.C. Agricultural Machinery Museum in Fort Langley. It could also support therapeutic riding programs, and provide office space for various organization such as the Horse Council of B.C.
“I believe that the Langley Horse and Farm Federation can provide insights into the needs and desires of horse people, and the broader agricultural community,” Esworthy said.