The United States Dressage Federation (USDF) announced the start of its “Going Green” Campaign. The campaign was developed to manage costs in a tough economy and support worldwide environmental efforts while continuing to provide the best in member benefits and services.

The first major step in the effort was the launch of the USDF website last fall, which has allowed USDF to provide extensive information and services to its members online, reducing paper usage, shipping costs, and staff processing time.

To further the campaign and involve all members, USDF has instituted the choice for individuals to opt out of receiving hardcopy membership cards and USDF Directory as both of these can be accessed online.
Also, by renewing online for the 2009 membership year, members can not only help save paper, postage, and handling, but will also receive a $15 gift certificate from Dover Saddlery.

As incentive for local group member organizations (GMOs) to become involved in these efforts, GMOs can opt to become a “Green Club.” By opting out of receiving hardcopy membership cards for members of their club and by submitting their rosters electronically, any “Green Club” will receive a USDF Club Point for each member submitted on their roster. USDF Club Points can be used for purchasing prizes and gifts through USDF’s Lendon F. Gray Bookstore.

For more information on how you can become involved in USDF’s “Going Green” campaign or to offer suggestions on how to further expand these efforts, visit the USDF website at www.usdf.org or contact the USDF office.