The MHIB, originally the State Board of Inspection of Horse Riding Stables, was established by Maryland statute in 1968.
The duties of the MHIB expanded beyond stable licensing to include: - promoting the use and development of horses in Maryland; - support research related to equine health and related issues; - creating public awareness of the value of equine activities as they relate to the green space preservation; - developing and disseminating information concerning the equine industry; and - advising the Department of Agriculture regarding matters affecting the horse industry in the State.
Those sectors or organizations include: - Trade and Support Businesses; - Officers of County Humane Societies; - Trails and Recreational Riding; - Organized Competitions and Shows; - Thoroughbreds; - Standardbreds; - Academic Equine Community; - Licensed Veterinarians; - Maryland Horse Council; - Licensed Stable Operators; and - The General Public.
Additionally, in order to fulfill its entire mission since 1999 the MHIB has awarded grants to non-profit and not-for-profit projects benefiting the Maryland horse industry.
In 2003, it awarded a $5,000 grant to the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center, part of the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine.