With no new cases of equine herpes virus reported since Sunday, the La Plata County Fairgrounds will reopen for horses today.
The fairgrounds had been closed to all horse-related activities since May 16 because of an outbreak of the virus. While the only reported case was in Rio Grande County, the fairgrounds was closed as a precaution because horses from La Plata County might have been exposed at National High School and Colorado Junior Rodeo Association events.
The county consulted with the state of Colorado Veterinarian’s Office before making the decision to reopen.
“We will, of course, keep a close eye on the situation,” said Mark McKibben, general services director for the county, “and make any changes necessary to protect the equine population that live at or visit the fairgrounds.”
EV-1, as the equine herpes virus is called, is not a danger to humans but can be quite dangerous to horses.
Several events were rescheduled because of the closure. The 4-H Gymkhana will take place at 4 p.m. June 14, and a 4-H Horse Show will be held at 9 a.m. June 29.
abutler@durangoherald.com
