Haueisen wins ‘Gibby Award’

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Paul Haueisen of Delaware County has been honored by the Ohio Horseman’s Council Inc.

The council recently named Haueisen as its 2015 award winner for contributions to the maintenance and preservation of bridle trails in Ohio.

Haueisen, a longtime member of the Delaware chapter of the Ohio Horseman’s Council, received the “Gibby Award” for his contributions at Alum Creek State Park.

Haueisen received his award before a large crowd of fellow council members and representatives from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources at a presentation ceremony at Barkcamp State Park in Belmont County.

The award is named after the developer of the bridle trails at Barkcamp. In 2001, Wilbur “Gibby” Gibson worked with ODNR and numerous volunteers and land owners to establish a bridle trail system in the park that is now considered a premier riding destination for horseback riders.

Haueisen was recognized for his efforts to improve the trail system at Alum Creek State Park. His leadership of a team of volunteers brought about improvements in trail conditions that had deteriorated over time and, in some places along the trails, had become hazardous for horseback riders due to erosion and extensive overgrowth. Low-lying areas and stream crossings were improved by culverts and crossing platforms.

In addition, working with council volunteers and ODNR’s cooperation, Haueisen’s team re-routed a major section of trail leading out of the horseman’s campground which, due to heavy use, had become muddy, causing many riders to turn around and shorten their rides.

“Paul’s dedication represents the drive and commitment of all Ohio Horseman’s Council volunteers,” said Arden Sims, president of the Ohio Horseman’s Council. “His efforts at Alum Creek are exemplary and inspirational for all horseback riders who enjoy Alum Creek’s bridle trail system.”

There are 50 miles of bridle trails at Alum Creek State Park offering four established trails: Winterhawk, Maple Glen, Hunter’s Hollow and The Flats. Each trail has its own challenges and offers a diversity of surroundings, terrain and nature’s beauty. The Flats offer the beginner rider the chance to experience Alum Creek on an easy-rated trail. The horseman’s camp has 25 primitive camp sites with water and high lines for horses, picnic tables, fire rings and restroom facilities. Members of the Delaware chapter of the council volunteer their time to maintain the Alum Creek trails so all horseback riders can safely enjoy the area. The horseman’s campground is located on the north side of Howard Road, west of Interstate 71 via Routes 36/37 and North Old State Road.

The Ohio Horseman’s Council is a non-profit corporation organized to provide a positive environment for equine owners and supporters to share ideas and suggestions for horse-related issues. Through education, organized trail rides and other social and service functions, the council provides financial resources and services to fellow organizations that support equine-related activities. In addition, more than 4,300 members in 67 counties volunteer their time and resources to promote the building and preservation of 1,600 miles of bridle trails in 100 locations throughout Ohio.

The Delaware County chapter meets the first Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Tri-Township fire station, Routes 36/37, Delaware. Horse owners of any age, breed of horse or riding discipline are welcome to attend the monthly meetings. The Delaware chapter has a Facebook page at Delaware County Ohio Horseman’s Council.

Past winners with the 2015 winner Paul Haueisen (center, holding the “Gibby” award). Left to right: Jack Weese, Medina County; Craig and Charlene Santee, Licking County; Ann and Troy Lindimore, Morgan County; Paul Haueisen, 2015 Gibby winner, Delaware County; Mike Gerard, Ashland County; Larry Matthews, Washington County; Don Wagner, Morgan County; and Jo Ellen Reikowski, Stark County.
http://aimmedianetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2015/12/web1_Paul-winning-Gibby-award-2015.jpgPast winners with the 2015 winner Paul Haueisen (center, holding the “Gibby” award). Left to right: Jack Weese, Medina County; Craig and Charlene Santee, Licking County; Ann and Troy Lindimore, Morgan County; Paul Haueisen, 2015 Gibby winner, Delaware County; Mike Gerard, Ashland County; Larry Matthews, Washington County; Don Wagner, Morgan County; and Jo Ellen Reikowski, Stark County. Courtesy photo
Ohio Horseman’s Council honors local man

Staff Report

Information for this story was provided by the Ohio Horseman’s Council Inc.

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