USDF “L” Education Program, Series Part 1-C

Silver Tail Farm is pleased to share preliminary information regarding the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) “L” Education Program, Series Part 1, scheduled for 2026. This program provides a comprehensive foundation in dressage judging principles and is designed for riders, trainers, and dedicated dressage enthusiasts who wish to deepen their understanding of the evaluation process.
The program will be held over three weekends:
Part A – March 21-22, 2026
Part B – April 18-19, 2026
Part C – May 9-10, 2026
Locations:
Holiday Inn Express May 9, 2026 – 8am-5pm
Holiday Inn Express May 10, 2026 in the morning & Silver Tail Farm Creswell, Oregon in the afternoon
Program Overview
Series Part 1 focuses on the theoretical components of judging, including methodology, scoring standards, biomechanics, the training scale, and evaluation of gaits and movements. Completion of this series is required for advancement to Part 2, which includes practical judging and evaluation.
Each weekend will include lectures, guided discussions, and multimedia demonstrations led by USDF-approved faculty.
Participant Eligibility
The program is open to:
– USDF members in good standing
– Riders of all levels seeking to refine their knowledge
– Professionals or aspiring professionals pursuing judge training
– Individuals interested in expanding their dressage education
Registration & Capacity
Enrollment will be limited to ensure meaningful interaction with faculty and adequate learning time. Registration details, fees, and deadlines will be provided in the formal announcement once USDF finalizes program logistics.
Next Steps
Please review the full information packet and priority registration information below. Questions about program content, eligibility, or scheduling are welcome.
Thank you for your interest in the USDF “L” Program. We look forward to supporting your educational development and hope you will join us for the 2026 series.
The “L Program Part 1 will be hosted by the Oregon Dressage Society.
The “L” Program classroom sessions and lodging will be at the Holiday Inn Express. The demonstration rider sessions will be held at Silver Tail Farm, just 17 miles from the Holiday Inn Express
Holiday Inn Express
919 Kruse Way
Springfield, Oregon 97477
541-284-0641
Silver Tail Farm, LLC
33331 Howe Lane
Creswell, Oregon 97426
541-510-9865
We are honored to have distinguished “L” faculty as follows:
Part A – March 21-22, 2026 Judy Downer “S” judge
Part B – April 18-19, 2026 Kari McClain FEI 4* “S” judge
Part C – May 9-10, 2026 Jodi Jones Lees “S”
Participation Information:
Participant cost per session (weekend) is $250.00
(Lunches, coffee and water included)
Lodging is contracted and booked (per night) $149.00
Reservation deadlines:
For March 21-22, 2026, deadline February 18, 2026
For April 18-19, 2026, deadline March 17, 2026
For May 9-10, 2026, deadline is April 8, 2026
Reservation block is listed as “Oregon Dressage Society”
Dry Camping is available at Silver Tail Farm $ 40.00/weekend
Should you choose to have an alternative there are a number of hotels surrounding the Holiday Inn Express should you prefer different accommodations.
Information & application links:
Participant Application Part 1
Travel information:
The Eugene Airport is served by a number of airlines with connections through Chicago, Denver, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and major west coast cities.
Portland International Airport is 132 miles from Creswell (approximately 2h 15m) as an alternate.
Coordinator and contact person:
Laura Frederiksen-Park
Email: laura@silvertailfarm.com
Mobile: 541-510-9865