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 actually 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 in Grand Isle County—sometimes in the classroom, and sometimes mounted. Cadets also have the option to join the Rangers for their monthly mounted training weekend from April through October.

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