About the Cadet Program

The Vermont Mounted Response Unit Cadet Program offers developing horsemen and women the opportunity to gain valuable practical skills in horsemanship, emergency preparedness and community service. Unlike any other riding program, the cadet program is designed for teens and adults who would like to develop the skills of a mounted ranger without having to serve as a ranger.

Cadets and their horses train independently of and alongside the rangers of the Vermont Horse Patrol. As a cadet, you will learn:

• Basic through advanced horsemanship
• Fundamentals of horse training
• Backcountry survival
• Emergency first aid
• and an expanded list of lifelong skills.

Cadets and their horses train two evenings a month at Catamount Ranch in Addison County—sometimes in the classroom, and sometimes mounted. Cadets also have the option to join the rangers for their monthly training weekend. Ranger training sessions are mounted from April through October, and are held primarily at Catamount Ranch.

Someone interested in the cadet program should complete and submit the main application form, indicating "cadet" at the top of the sheet.