The GMO now known as the CSDEA was founded in September 1970 as the Dressage and Combined Training Association. The group consisted of 128 members throughout the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Illinois, and Michigan. For their $10 (seniors) or $5 (juniors) annual fee, members received a three-page newsletter adorned with a hand-drawn picture of a horse.
Today the CSDEA boasts members from Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Dressage and eventing clinics, dressage shows, horse trials, and year-end awards offer members educational and competitive opportunities.