Meet the original horse power! Prized for their great endurance, splendid disposition, willingness to work, impressive stature, and versatility, draft horses and mules are making a strong comeback. Today, an estimated 5 to 10 percent of America’s 3.5 million horses are draft breeds. It’s no wonder: these powerful animals can accomplish an astounding array of tasks. They pull carriages, assist with heavy logging, serve as a vital educational link to the past, and are increasingly popular for showing and competing. Many small-scale farmers appreciate that these animals offer a clean-energy alternative to modern farm machinery; a team of two draft horses can cultivate several acres of land in a single day, enriching the soil as they work. Unlike mechanical equipment, a good team actually appreciates in value over time. Draft Horses and Mules, by Gail Damerow and Alina Rice, distills the great tradition of these impressive animals into a definitive guide. DesignedDraft Horses & Mules: Harnessing Equine Power for Farm & Show