A study released this week shows that Oklahoma's horse industry had an economic impact totaling $3.6 billion in 2012.
The survey was commissioned by the Oklahoma Equine Alliance and was completed this year. It also estimated the industry supported roughly 35,000 jobs and generated more than $100 million in state and local taxes.
Members of the alliance include the Thoroughbred Racing Association of Oklahoma, Oklahoma Farm Bureau, Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission and the OklahomaDepartment of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry, among other groups.
The alliance noted that Oklahoma is known worldwide for its top horses and facilities, is recognized as the horse show capital of the world and is home to more than 1,000 rodeo events, among other highlights of the industry.