Although polo fields, peaceful barns, grass tracks and Hitchcock Woods anchor Aiken's landscape, the presence of the horse creates unique business and recreation opportunities that few cities across America can equal.

South Carolina's Department of Agriculture recognized in its review last year that the horse industry has been undervalued for years, providing a vibrant, growing economic base for both Aiken County and the city.

The U.S. Polo Association's Gold Cup being played this month is a good place to start. The event has attracted hundreds of people who are spending money on accommodations, food and entertainment.

Todd Stilp, who helped organize the Aiken Polo Festival, which includes the Gold Cup, estimated the tournament and associated events will generate in excess of $1 million in less than a month.

The Aiken Polo Pony Auction, also held this month, brings in hundreds of visitors to buy horses and watch high-goal polo. Last year, more than $500,000 was spent at the auction, with hotels and restaurants doing a brisk business.

The fall and spring steeplechases also generate significant tourism dollars.

The 1994 South Carolina Equine Survey showed Aiken County as the leader in the state with more than $63 million invested, nearly double the closest runner-up.

Rick and Cathy Cram's Progressive Show Jumping, located in Aiken, is one of the best examples of a business that generates income for the city and county, increases tourism and costs taxpayers next to nothing.

The Aiken Spring Classic, a two-week venue for hunters and jumpers, brings into town nearly 2,000 people from about 30 states. The U.S. Equestrian Federation's recent study estimated that over $3 million was spent for meals, lodging, shopping, and horse care during the shows.

The Crams are not Aiken's only family-owned business with direct ties to the horse industry.

Charlie and Kim Herrick's Banks Mill Feed, started in 1996, ships to more than six states and is recognized as a top choice for competition horses. With more than $1.3 million in sales annually, the company is now building additional warehouses at its Banks Mill Road location.

Another company, Corta Flex, run by Bruce Snipes, is nationally known (for supplying) the best nutritional products for racing and aged horses.

Equi-Pet, on Park Avenue, also specializes in feed supplements and is marketed nationally through PetSmart. It now plans to expand internationally.

The horse is Aiken's proven ambassador for tourism and investment.

The revenue stream for the county and city has increased dramatically. Horse farms demand little in the way of expensive city or county services compared to residential developments or shopping centers.

More than 70 polo and hunter farms have relocated from Florida and other "horsey" states such as Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts.

The $50 million-plus spent in the past few years by horsemen purchasing land and farms has also helped create new businesses. Fencing, landscaping, road building and well-drilling bring in dollars to the area.

Sales for farm equipment and supplies are increasing as well.

United Energy, a supplier of biodiesel, has seen a big jump in fuel sales from its location on Toolebeck Road from trucks trailering horses throughout the area.

Besides the direct impact of horses on the tax base and jobs, local charities benefit from the growth of the horse economy.

This year's Aiken Spring Classic Horse Show raised nearly $30,000 for the newly established Child Advocacy Center.

Hitchcock Woods received over one-third of it's annual operating budget from the 2006 Aiken in the Woods horse show.

Recreation for families also is provided by horse sports offering an inexpensive form of entertainment and sense of community. Aiken is blessed that its past builds its future. With local participation and support, Aiken can ensure its vitality in the 21st century by its continued dedication to the sport, art and economy of the horse.

Diana Crowley is an Aiken horse owner.